Reduction of maladaptive mouthing behavior by facial screening

This study examined the effectiveness of facial screening as a treatment to reduce maladaptive object mouthing by a four and a half-year-old moderately retarded boy during two play periods in a public school classroom. In baseline, each episode of mouthing was terminated by saying "no mouth" and removing the object from the subject while placing it within his reach. Treatment consisted of saying "no mouth" and covering the subject's entire face for three seconds with a soft towel. Results of an A-B-A-B design showed frequent episodes of mouthing during nontreatment conditions, which rapidly decelerated when facial screening was in effect. Follow-up data at 6, 12, and 18 month intervals indicated long lasting treatment benefits. The potential extension of facial screening as a treatment for milder maladaptive behaviors in less restricted settings than previously documented is suggested.