The effects of noncontingent reinforcement and response interruption on stereotypic behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement.
Item
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Title
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The effects of noncontingent reinforcement and response interruption on stereotypic behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement.
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Identifier
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AAI3278419
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identifier
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3278419
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Creator
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Cicero, Frank R.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Georgiana Tryon
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Date
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2007
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Education, Educational Psychology | Psychology, Behavioral
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Abstract
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Automatically reinforced, stereotypic behaviors are frequently observed in children with autism. Because they are self reinforcing, these behaviors are often difficult to treat. The current study investigated the effects of noncontingent reinforcement using matched sensory stimuli on a fixed-time schedule and response interruption of stereotypic behavior, both in isolation and in combination, on the rates of stereotypic behavior. Four preschool-age students with autism served as participants. A single subject reversal design was used. Rates of appropriate object engagement under these three treatment conditions were also assessed. Functional analysis data is presented showing target behaviors to be automatic in function. Results showed a decrease in stereotypic behavior from baseline within the response interruption and combined treatment phases, however, decreased responding was not achieved when noncontingent reinforcement was implemented in isolation. Substantial increases in appropriate object engagement were not obtained in any treatment phase. Results are discussed in terms of treatment implications, applied behavioral theory and the impact on the field of school psychology.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
