A replication to increase happiness indices among some people with profound multiple disabilities

A replication of Green and Reid was made for four people with profound multiple disabilities by systematically increasing their happiness indices in a Fun Time activity during which their preferred stimuli were provided. In ABAB reversal designs, 3 of the 4 participants replicated the demonstration of the happiness indices, while the fourth individual showed reduced unhappiness indices when his preferred stimulation was presented. These effects were obtained despite the selection of preferred stimuli without formal assessment procedures and the use of brief training procedures for staff providing the stimulation. A subgroup of three individuals with profound multiple disabilities and minimal (almost no) movement failed to show any indices of happiness or unhappiness with this procedure. Uses for happiness indices were discussed. Alternative programming was suggested for individuals who failed to show any indices of happiness.