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Escape Extinction and Negative Reinforcement in the Treatment of Pediatric Feeding Disorders: a Single Case Analysis

Harry Voulgarakis1, Solandy Forte2

  • 1Milford, CT USA ; grid.298695.90000000405272734School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA USA.

Behavior Analysis in Practice
|October 6, 2016
PubMed

Insights

This study shows a successful treatment for pediatric feeding disorders in a child with cerebral palsy using negative reinforcement. The intervention significantly increased food acceptance, improving outcomes for children with complex disabilities.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric feeding disorders
  • Behavioral interventions
  • Developmental disabilities

Background:

  • Pediatric feeding disorders are prevalent in children with developmental disabilities, impacting growth.
  • Cerebral palsy often presents complex feeding challenges.
  • Effective interventions are crucial for improving nutritional intake and development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine an escape extinction and negative reinforcement-based approach for treating food refusal.
  • To assess the efficacy of a changing criterion treatment design in a pediatric feeding context.
  • To contribute to the literature on treating feeding problems in children with complex disabilities like cerebral palsy.

Main Methods:

  • A changing criterion treatment design was implemented.
  • Escape extinction and negative reinforcement principles were utilized.
  • Treatment allowed contingent exit from the treatment area upon food acceptance.

Main Results:

  • Food acceptance increased from a baseline of 1-3 bites.
  • The child exceeded mastery criteria, reaching 14 bites by the final phase.
  • The intervention demonstrated effectiveness in increasing food intake.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights the utility of negative reinforcement and changing criterion design for pediatric feeding disorders.
  • This approach shows promise for children with cerebral palsy and complex feeding needs.
  • The intervention is brief and practical for clinical application.

Keywords:
Cerebral palsyEscape extinctionFood refusalNegative reinforcementPediatric feeding

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