The efficacy of a response cost-based treatment package for managing aggressive behavior in preschoolers

The present study examined the effectiveness of a response cost treatment package for improving the classroom behavior of four aggressive preschoolers. Using a multiple baseline design, teachers implemented the response cost system during the treatment phases of the study. The system required teachers to remove smiley faces contingent on aggressive behavior. Each face loss was accompanied by a reprimand. If the child retained at least one smiley face at the end of the observation period, he was allowed to choose from a list of rewards. Rewards were easily administered at school. The results indicated that the response cost treatment package substantially decreased aggressive behavior and was a highly acceptable classroom treatment to teachers and parents.