Self-control as generalized operant behavior by adults with autism spectrum disorder

The present investigation attempted to teach self-control to 3 adults who had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Using a self-control training procedure that coupled a gradual fading of delay to access a large delayed reinforcer with a concurrent work requirement, each participant was exposed to conditions in which baseline levels of choices for large delayed reinforcers and task engagement increased 10-fold. Furthermore, generalization effects were partially demonstrated in a novel context.