Behavior management of aggressive sequela after Reye's syndrome

This study describes the use of behavior management procedures to reduce the occurrence of severe behavioral sequela in a 14-year-old, post-Reye's syndrome male. Prior to intervention the client exhibited severe self-injurious, hyperaggressive, and food refusal behaviors that precluded any opportunities for rehabilitation, placed him at severe medical risk, and made him a candidate for institutional placement. With contingent restraint, in vivo desensitization, and reinforcement contingencies it was possible to control these behaviors and begin intensive rehabilitation. Subsequently, the client returned to his family and community day school for the severely handicapped where he remains five years later.