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Empirically derived consequences: a data-based method for prescribing treatments for destructive behavior
W Fisher1, C C Piazza, L G Bowman
1Neurobehavioral Unit, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205.
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|March 1, 1994
Summary
This study introduces a data-based assessment to identify reinforcers and punishers for destructive behaviors when functional assessments are unclear. Empirically derived consequences effectively reduced destructive behaviors in two clients.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Functional assessments are standard for behavioral treatments but can be inconclusive.
- Equivocal results may indicate internal stimuli maintaining behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate an alternative data-based assessment for identifying reinforcers and punishers.
- Test the efficacy of empirically derived consequences in treating destructive behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a reinforcement assessment procedure (Pace et al., 1985) to identify consequences.
- Applied combined empirically derived reinforcers and punishers to two clients with destructive behaviors.
Main Results:
- Both clients exhibited marked decreases in destructive behavior rates.
- The data-based assessment successfully identified effective consequences.
Conclusions:
- Empirically derived consequences are effective for reducing destructive behavior, especially when functional assessments are inconclusive.
- This method offers a viable alternative for cases where behavior is maintained by internal stimuli.