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Toward a functional analysis of self-injury
B A Iwata1, M F Dorsey, K J Slifer
1John F. Kennedy Institute.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1994
Summary
This study investigated self-injury in developmentally disabled individuals by observing behavior under varied environmental conditions. Results indicate specific environmental factors can influence self-injurious behavior, informing treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Developmental Disabilities
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is a significant concern in individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Understanding the environmental triggers of SIB is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the functional relationship between self-injury and specific environmental events.
- To identify environmental conditions that influence the frequency of self-injurious behavior.
Main Methods:
- Operant methodology was employed to assess SIB.
- Nine subjects with developmental disabilities were exposed to analogue conditions varying in play materials, experimenter demands, and social attention.
- Self-injurious behaviors were observed during these exposures.
Main Results:
- Significant between- and within-subject variability in SIB was observed.
- For six out of nine subjects, higher levels of SIB were consistently linked to specific stimulus conditions.
- This suggests SIB is influenced by distinct features of the social and physical environment.
Conclusions:
- Environmental factors play a significant role in motivating self-injurious behavior.
- Findings have implications for selecting appropriate and individualized treatment strategies for SIB.
- Further research into environmental manipulations can aid in reducing SIB.