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An integrated model for guiding the selection of treatment components for problem behavior maintained by automatic
Wendy K Berg1, David P Wacker1, Joel E Ringdahl1
1The University of Iowa.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|March 19, 2016
Summary
This study shows that two assessments can guide effective treatments for problem behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement. Both treatments led to significant reductions in problem behavior over 10-12 months.
Area of Science:
- Behavior Analysis
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Psychology
Background:
- Problem behavior is often maintained by automatic reinforcement.
- Functional analysis is crucial for identifying maintaining consequences.
- Treatment selection requires understanding the function of behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate two assessments for guiding treatment selection.
- To determine if assessments can identify effective interventions for automatic reinforcement.
- To assess treatment effectiveness over a 10-12 month period.
Main Methods:
- Compared problem behavior in play vs. alone/ignore conditions.
- Assessed preferences for automatic vs. social reinforcement.
- Assigned participants to noncontingent or differential social reinforcement treatments.
- Monitored treatment effects via monthly probes.
Main Results:
- All 5 participants showed reductions in problem behavior.
- The assessments successfully guided treatment selection.
- Treatments were effective in reducing problem behavior over time.
Conclusions:
- Two assessments are useful for guiding treatment selection for automatic reinforcement.
- Behavioral interventions based on these assessments can be effective.
- Long-term monitoring confirms treatment efficacy.
Keywords:
automatic reinforcementcompeting reinforcersconcurrent operantsdifferential reinforcementnoncontingent reinforcementproblem behaviorself-injurious behaviorMore Related Videos
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