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Parameters of reinforcement and response-class hierarchies
Gracie A Beavers1, Brian A Iwata, Meagan K Gregory
1Georgia State University.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|February 7, 2014
Summary
This study explored how different reinforcer characteristics influence response hierarchies in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Reinforcer quality and magnitude significantly shaped these hierarchies, suggesting their importance in behavioral development.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Intellectual disabilities research
Background:
- Response-response relations (effort) influence response-class hierarchies.
- Response-reinforcer relations may exert similar influences on behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of reinforcer rate, quality, delay, and magnitude on response-class hierarchies.
- To use a translational approach with individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a series of separate experiments with 8 individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Systematically varied reinforcer rate, quality, delay, and magnitude.
Main Results:
- Response-class hierarchies emerged along the dimension of quality for 5 of 5 subjects.
- Response-class hierarchies emerged along the dimension of magnitude for 5 of 6 subjects.
- Hierarchies emerged for rate in 3 of 6 subjects and delay in 2 of 8 subjects.
Conclusions:
- Reinforcer quality and magnitude are significant factors in the development of response-class hierarchies.
- Findings suggest that manipulating reinforcer characteristics can influence behavioral development in individuals with intellectual disabilities.
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