Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 26, 2026

Modeling Verbal Behavior Deficits with the Stimulus Control Ratio Equation, SCoRE
Published on: May 14, 2019
Assessment and treatment of problem behavior maintained by mand compliance
Zina Eluri1, Ivette Andrade1, Noemi Trevino1
1University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley.
Abstract:
We modified functional analysis procedures to include a condition in which we reinforced problem behavior by complying with a child's mands. After identifying compliance with mands as a reinforcer, we evaluated the efficacy of a token system with a response-cost contingency and incorporated discriminative stimuli to signal when mands would be reinforced. The token system with response cost effectively reduced problem behavior. Similar procedures may be beneficial when continuous adult compliance is not possible, when adults want to control when they will comply with the child's mands, or to build a child's tolerance for adult-directed situations.
Insights
This study modified functional analysis to reinforce child mands, reducing problem behaviors with a token system. This approach helps manage compliance and build tolerance for adult-directed situations.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Background:
- Functional analysis is key to understanding behavior.
- Child mands can be reinforced by adult compliance.
Observation:
- Problem behavior was reinforced by adult compliance with child mands.
- A token system with response cost and discriminative stimuli was implemented.
Findings:
- The token system effectively reduced problem behavior.
- Compliance with mands was identified as a reinforcer.
Implications:
- This procedure offers a controlled way to manage adult compliance with child mands.
- It can be used when continuous compliance is not feasible.
- The method may help children tolerate adult-directed situations.
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