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The effects of variable-time versus contingent reinforcement delivery on problem behavior maintained by escape
Joanna E Lomas Mevers1, Wayne W Fisher, Michael E Kelley
1Marcus Autism Center and Georgia State University.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|April 26, 2014
Summary
Contingent reinforcement, using preferred items and praise for compliance, effectively reduced problem behavior and increased desired responses in most participants compared to time-based delivery.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Previous research shows positive reinforcement can decrease problem behavior.
- Escape-maintained problem behavior can be reduced even with continued negative reinforcement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare contingent vs. time-based delivery of reinforcement for compliance.
- To assess effects on problem behavior and compliance levels.
Main Methods:
- Four participants were assessed.
- Food and praise were delivered contingent on compliance or on a time-based schedule.
Main Results:
- Contingent reinforcement reduced problem behavior in 3 of 4 participants.
- Contingent reinforcement increased compliance in 3 of 4 participants.
- Contingent delivery was more effective than time-based delivery.
Conclusions:
- Contingent positive reinforcement is a viable strategy for reducing problem behavior.
- Reinforcement schedules impact behavior change effectiveness.
- Findings align with theories of motivating operations and reinforcement competition.
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