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Repetitive Speech and Problem Behavior: Functional Analysis of Precurrent Contingencies.

Craig W Strohmeier1,2, Amanda Goetzel1, Sara Deinlein1

  • 1Neurobehavioral Unit Programs, Department of Behavioral Psychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA.

Behavior Analysis in Practice
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Problem behavior in autism can function as a precurrent behavior, increasing reinforcement for repetitive speech. This study shows how analyzing these precurrent contingencies can inform effective treatments for co-occurring behaviors.

Keywords:
Precurrent contingencyFunctional analysisProblem behaviorRepetitive behavior

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Area of Science:

  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

  • Problem behavior and repetitive behaviors often co-occur in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • Repetitive behaviors can function similarly to mands, especially when caregiver interaction is involved.
  • Understanding the relationship between these behaviors is crucial for effective intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the function of problem behavior as a precurrent response in individuals with autism.
  • To analyze the relationship between repetitive speech and problem behavior using functional analysis.
  • To present assessment and treatment outcomes for two participants with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted informal observations to identify patterns between repetitive speech and problem behavior.
  • Performed functional analyses to confirm the relationship between the behaviors.
  • Implemented and reported on treatment results for participants.

Main Results:

  • Informal observations indicated problem behavior occurred when specific caregiver responses to repetitive speech were absent.
  • Functional analysis confirmed that problem behavior served as a precurrent response, enhancing reinforcement for repetitive speech.
  • Treatment interventions based on precurrent contingency analysis were effective.

Conclusions:

  • Problem behavior can function as a precurrent behavior, facilitating access to reinforcement for repetitive speech in individuals with autism.
  • Precurrent contingency analysis is a valuable tool for understanding and treating co-occurring problem and repetitive behaviors in ASD.
  • The findings support the application of this analytical framework for developing targeted interventions.