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Self-restraint as positive reinforcement for self-injurious behavior
R G Smith1, D C Lerman, B A Iwata
1University of North Texas, USA.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) can decrease when self-restraint is unavailable. However, SIB rates increased when self-restraint was contingent on the behavior, suggesting it acted as positive reinforcement.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Developmental disabilities research
Background:
- Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is a complex issue often co-occurring with self-restraint.
- Understanding the function of self-restraint in relation to SIB is crucial for intervention.
Observation:
- A case study examined a 32-year-old woman with profound intellectual disability and SIB.
- SIB rates were observed under three conditions: continuous access to restraint, restraint as a consequence for SIB, and no access to restraint.
Findings:
- SIB rates decreased when self-restraint was unavailable.
- SIB rates increased when self-restraint was made contingent on SIB.
- This suggests self-restraint served as a positive reinforcer for SIB.
Implications:
- Findings highlight the importance of analyzing the reinforcing properties of self-restraint in individuals with SIB.
- Interventions for SIB may need to consider and potentially modify the function of self-restraint.
- This research contributes to understanding behavioral functions in profound intellectual disability.