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Successful operant conditioning procedures with an institutionalized aggressive geriatric patient
1Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11550.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study used a modified differential reinforcement of other behaviors (DRO) schedule to successfully treat aggression in a 69-year-old male, showing significant behavioral control.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Aggression in older adults presents significant challenges.
- Behavioral interventions are crucial for managing aggressive behaviors.
- Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors (DRO) is an effective strategy.
Observation:
- A modified DRO schedule with exclusionary time-out was applied to a 69-year-old male exhibiting aggressive behavior.
- Treatment involved tangible reinforcers for non-aggressive behavior, with a systematic fading procedure.
- An ABAB research design tracked physical and verbal aggression over time, including a four-month follow-up.
Findings:
- The intervention demonstrated clear behavioral control over aggressive incidents.
- Clinically significant treatment effects were observed during both experimental phases.
- The fading of tangible reinforcers maintained treatment gains.
Implications:
- Modified DRO schedules are effective for treating aggression in older adults.
- Further research should explore long-term efficacy and generalizability.
- Behavioral interventions offer a viable alternative to traditional methods for managing aggression.