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Parametric analysis of response interruption and redirection as treatment for stereotypy
Valdeep Saini1, Meagan K Gregory, Kirstin J Uran
1Florida Institute of Technology and the Scott Center for Autism Treatment.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|February 3, 2015
Summary
Response interruption and redirection (RIRD) effectively reduces stereotypy. A modified RIRD procedure using only one demand is faster and less intrusive than the standard three-demand method.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Applied behavior analysis
- Developmental disabilities research
Background:
- Response interruption and redirection (RIRD) is a procedure used to decrease stereotyped behaviors.
- RIRD is effective when stereotypy is maintained by automatic reinforcement.
- Current RIRD methods can be time-consuming and disrupt ongoing activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of a modified RIRD procedure using one demand versus the standard three-demand RIRD procedure.
- To evaluate the efficiency and intrusiveness of the modified RIRD procedure.
Main Methods:
- Participants were exposed to both standard (3-demand) and modified (1-demand) RIRD procedures.
- The study measured the reduction in stereotypy, number of demands, and implementation time.
- Appropriate play behaviors were also observed.
Main Results:
- The 1-demand RIRD procedure effectively reduced stereotypy in all participants.
- The modified procedure required fewer demands and less implementation time.
- Two participants demonstrated an increase in appropriate play during the 1-demand RIRD.
Conclusions:
- Response interruption and redirection using a single demand is an effective and less intrusive alternative to the standard procedure.
- This modified approach may be a more practical method for reducing stereotypy in clinical settings.

