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A practical strategy for ongoing reinforcer assessment
S A Mason1, G G McGee, V Farmer-Dougan
1Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst 01003.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1989
Summary
A new reinforcer assessment method improved behavior and accuracy in preschoolers with autism. This approach systematically tracks changing preferences, highlighting the importance of effective reinforcer assessment in practice.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Effective reinforcer assessment is crucial for behavior intervention, yet practical, dynamic methods are lacking.
- Understanding individual preferences is key to motivating desired behaviors and reducing maladaptive ones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a time-efficient reinforcer assessment package for preschoolers with autism.
- To compare teacher-selected reinforcers with children's actual preferences.
Main Methods:
- A multiple baseline design across three participants was employed.
- Children's presession preferences for various sensory items were assessed.
- Individualized item selections were compared with teacher-selected options.
Main Results:
- Systematic reinforcer assessment led to the elimination of nontargeted maladaptive behaviors.
- Significant improvements in response accuracy were observed.
- Children's preferences strongly influenced the effectiveness of reinforcers.
Conclusions:
- A time-efficient reinforcer assessment package can be practically implemented.
- Systematic preference assessment is vital for maximizing treatment outcomes.
- The study underscores the need for greater focus on reinforcer assessment in autism interventions.