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Treatment relapse and behavioral momentum theory.
Duncan Pritchard1, Marguerite Hoerger, F Charles Mace
1Aran Hall School and Bangor University.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|October 8, 2014
Summary
Behavioral momentum theory explains why problem behaviors persist after treatment. This research reviews the theory and its implications for applied behavior analysis to prevent relapse.
Area of Science:
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Behavioral Psychology
- Psychology
Background:
- Treatment relapse is a persistent challenge in applied behavior analysis.
- Behavioral momentum theory (BMT) offers a framework for understanding relapse.
- BMT posits that behavior is more persistent in contexts associated with higher reinforcement rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the foundational research of BMT.
- To examine alternative theories of treatment relapse.
- To discuss translational research and practical implications of BMT for applied behavior analysis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on BMT.
- Analysis of theoretical accounts of treatment relapse.
- Examination of translational studies applying BMT principles.
Main Results:
- Behavioral momentum theory provides a robust explanation for treatment relapse.
- Disruption of response-reinforcer relations in high-reinforcer contexts leads to persistent behavior.
- Translational research supports the application of BMT in practical settings.
Conclusions:
- Relapse can be understood as behavior persistence when treatment is compromised.
- BMT offers valuable insights for developing strategies to prevent treatment relapse.
- Further research and application of BMT are recommended for applied behavior analysis practice.
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