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| #407 Poster Session – DDA |
| Monday, May 31, 2004 |
| 5:30 PM–7:00 PM |
| Exhibit Hall D (Hynes) |
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| 63. Effects of Student-Selected Order versus Teacher-Selected Order in Picture Activity Schedules |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| BRETA M. COMBS (South Kingstown Public Schools) |
| Abstract: Four children with a diagnosis of attention deficit disorder participated in a study using picture activity schedules. An alternating treatment design was used to assess the effect of an activity schedule using student-selected tasks (choice condition) versus teacher-selected tasks (no-choice condition) on aberrant behavior and engagement. The teacher-selected condition was yoked. Each student demonstrated increasing, variable trend during the training phase but when the choice versus no-choice condition was introduced the students demonstrated a decrease in independence in the no-choice condition, responding with gradually increasing stable trend during the choice sessions. During the choice-only phase, the students demonstrated a high, stable independence in completing his activity schedule. In analysis of the student’s aberrant behavior we see a low to moderate stable level of responding evident across target behaviors in the training phase. When the choice versus no-choice condition was introduced, the student’s aberrant behavior initially remained stable but was followed by a slight decreasing trend in aberrant behavior in the choice sessions and an increasing trend in the no-choice sessions. In the choice-only phase, the students demonstrated low stable levels. Results indicated that the choice condition produced greater independence and lower rates of aberrant behavior for all four children. The results replicate previous research conducted on the use of activity schedules. |
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| 64. Correlation of Caregiver Stress and Knowledge of Behavior Principles |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| REBECA GRINSTEAD (Kennedy Krieger Institute), Theodosia R. Paclawskyj (Kennedy Krieger Institute) |
| Abstract: Parent training is an essential component of successful treatment of severe maladaptive behavior in individuals with developmental disabilities (Jacobson and Mulick, 1986). It may also be true that understanding the variables that control behavior could lead to decreases in parental stress. The relationship between knowledge of behavioral principles and levels of caregiver stress has not been addressed. This could be assessed through comparison of two commonly used measures. The Knowledge of Behavioral Principles as Applied to Children (KBPAC; O’Dell, Tarler-Benlolo, & Flynn, 1979) is a multiple-choice questionnaire designed to assess basic understanding of behavioral principles. The Parenting Stress Index (PSI) is used to assess different areas of stress for caregivers through a 5 point Likert scale. This study examined the relationships between caregiver scores on the KBPAC and the PSI. Parents of 10 clients referred to an outpatient clinic completed the scales prior to functional assessment and at discharge. Correlations were calculated for the scores of parents who improved by 5 points or greater on the KBPAC and for the group as a whole. Higher correlations were observed for the subgroup that improved in the KBPAC. Implications for treatment integrity and caregiver training are discussed. |
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| 65. Delay Fading With Differential Negative Reinforcement |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| LINDSAY S. HAUER (Marcus Autism Center), Henry S. Roane (Marcus Autism Center), Nathan Call (Marcus Autism Center), Shuki Kathuria (Marcus Autism Center) |
| Abstract: One limitation of functional communication training (FCT) is that it can be difficult to implement in natural settings (e.g. classrooms) when the schedule of reinforcement requires high levels of therapist interaction. Previous research has shown delay fading to be an effective means of thinning the schedule of reinforcement. Such procedures have primarily been reported with problem behavior that is maintained by positive reinforcement, with little research on the effects of delay fading with negatively reinforced problem behavior. In the current study, a functional analysis indicated that self-injury (SIB) was maintained by escape from physical demands for one participant. FCT was implemented during which the participant received a 30-second break contingent on communication. An initial 5-s delay to reinforcement was added to the treatment package, and the delay was increased by 50% following two consecutive sessions in which SIB occurred at a rate less than 80% of baseline levels. Reliability data were collected in 35% of sessions conducted and was not below 80% agreement. A terminal delay of 1065-s was reached within 34 sessions, demonstrating the effectiveness of FCT delay fading for reducing problem behavior maintained by negative reinforcement while simultaneously thinning the schedule of reinforcement to more manageable levels. |
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| 66. The Use of Functional Communication Training on a Brief Outpatient Basis: A Case Study |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| TRACY J. STEPHENS (University of South Dakota), Brittany D. Schmidt (University of South Dakota), Laura L. Knippling (University of South Dakota), Amy J. Elliott (University of South Dakota) |
| Abstract: Previous research documenting the success of functional communication training (FCT) to reduce problem behaviors has mainly focused on intensive inpatient research. This study demonstrates FCT effectiveness in eight one hour outpatient sessions with an adult woman with profound mental retardation and autistic characteristics. A method was established for her to communicate her choice of work or break, and a subsequent increase in her task completion and a reduction in her disruptive behavior were observed.
Data was analyzed via videotape for all ten sessions conducted. The amount of appropriate behavior Patty exhibited during work tasks increased from an average of 24% in the first two sessions to over 96% in the last three sessions. The amount of time the participant independently chose to spend at work versus remain in the break area increased from less than 20% in the first four sessions to over 50% by the last three sessions. By the end of the outpatient sessions, the participant engaged in virtually no aggressive or self-injurious behavior and demonstrated an increase in self-selection of work related activities. Interobserver data was collected for 35% of the intervals with 96.7% agreement. Paychecks for the six months before and after intervention as well as staff and family comments were used to evaluate social validity. |
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| 67. Toilet Training 2003 in the MR/DD Population: An Updated Empirical Literature Review |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| KIMBERLY ANN KROEGER (Kennedy Krieger Institute) |
| Abstract: A current review of empirical toilet training research pertaining to individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities was conducted. Studies were critically reviewed and analyzed for empirical methodology and treatment effectiveness. Toileting procedures were categorized according to behavioral principles employed and reviewed based on methodology, empirical validation, and treatment effectiveness. Elements of successful toileting protocols are highlighted, and limitations to efficacy, efficiency, and social validity are discussed. |
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| 68. The Use of Descriptive and Experimental Functional Analyses to Identify An Idiosyncratic Tangible Function |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| CHRISTOPHER J. PERRIN (Bancroft NeuroHealth), April S. Worsdell (Bancroft NeuroHealth) |
| Abstract: This study examined the systematic steps taken to identify the function of an individual’s problem behaviors when the results of initial functional analyses were inconclusive. First, a multielement functional analysis was conducted in a session room. Due to near-zero rates observed across conditions, a second functional analysis was conducted in the living environment where the participant resided. Low rates of problem behavior also were observed in the second functional analysis. Next, descriptive analyses were conducted, and results suggested a correlation between interrupting a task or activity and the occurrence of problem behavior. Using this information, an assessment was conducted during which additional access time to complete tasks or activities was provided contingent on problem behavior. Results indicated that the participant’s problem behaviors were maintained by social-positive reinforcement in the form of access to tangibles. These results suggest that the information derived from descriptive analyses may be useful when developing an experimental analysis to test for an idiosyncratic behavioral function. Interobserver agreement averaged at least 80% for all sessions. |
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| 69. Using Empirical Analysis in Assessing a Self-stimulatory Behavior |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| ARNIE ZENCIUS (Devereux Cleo Wallace), Jeanne M. Brower (Cornerstone Services, Inc.), Michael Malkusak (Cornerstone Services, Inc.) |
| Abstract: The participant was a 37 year old female diagnosed with Touorettes Syndrome. She resided in a group home with 5 other women and worked at one of the agencies workshops. Through casual observatin it was noted that she engaged in a neck-pulling behavior both at home and at the workshop. This behavior was reported to have occurred over the the past 10 years but only occurred during unstructured periods. The behavior was not immediately dangerous to herself or others; however, this behavior resulted in permanent bruise marks on her neck. Through casual assessments (i.e., interviews and completion of the FAST & QABF) it was found that the behavior served the purpose of self-stimulation. To further assess the function of behavior an empirical analysis of the behavior was conducted. Data collected from the experimental analysis supported the hypothesis that the behavior served the function of providing self-stimulation to the participant. That is, the self-stimulatory behavior occurred in over 90% of all the one minute intervals observed under the condition of austere environment. The self-stimulatory occurred in less than 10% of all intervals scored when she was given the opportunity to participate in programmed activities. A multi-element design was used to demonstrate experimental control using a condition with programmed activities and another condition using verbal reminders. Results show that both programmed activities and verbal reminders greatly decreased the self-stimulatory behavior as compated to baseline. |
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| 70. Control of Posture in a Wheel Chair: A Quick but Rigorous Demonstration |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| COLEMAN PAUL (Adelphi University) |
| Abstract: A 34 year old man, “Joe”, retarded and wheelchair bound due to severe cerebral palsy, routinely leaned far forward in his wheelchair, with his face oriented toward the floor. In this position he was unable to swallow his saliva, which collected on his chin and dripped onto his chair. His position also made it difficult for teachers to make eye contact with him or to present visual stimuli. His physical therapist asked for assistance in training him to sit back in his chair, as he did not comply with instructions to do so. Physical prompts had only transient effects.
Inquiries suggested that music was a reinforcer for this man. A tape-recorder was modified so that a switch had to be held in the on position for the recorder to play. A mechanical switch was embedded in a small pillow which was placed on the backrest of the wheel chair. When Joe sat back against the pillow, music played; when he leaned forward the music stopped. An A-B, A-B, A-B sequence indicated Joe sat back when music was available but not when it was unavailable. The physical therapist used the procedure to help Joe build upper body strength and increase the “sitting-back” time. |
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| 71. A Tracking of Psychotropic Medications and Frequency of Behavioral Issues in an Acquired Brain Injury Program |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| KENNETH W. WILSON (Southern Illinois University Carbondale), John M. Guercio (Center for Comprehensive Services) |
| Abstract: Individuals who acquire brain injury (ABI) exhibit a wide range of behavioral problems, from self-injurious behavior (SIB) to inappropriate sexual conduct. Many of these people are also on several types of psychotropic medication to try and alleviate these behavioral anomalies. The purpose of this study was to track both residential expectation issues (REI) and medication type and dosage to determine any correlations between medication use and reduction in behavioral issues. The data appear to display a significant relationship between reduced medications and an increase in receptivity of behavioral interventions. As a result, reduced behavior issues occurred at an organizational level. These data suggest that psychotropic medications do not always work successfully to reduce problem behavior. |
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| 72. A Functional Polymorphism in the MAOA Promoter Gene Associated with Aggression |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| MICHAEL E. MAY (Vanderbilt University), Craig H. Kennedy (Vanderbilt University) |
| Abstract: Introduction: The MAOA enzyme is responsible for amine degradation, particularly serotonin (5-HT). Human and animal research has implicated the gene that produces the enzyme in elevated levels of aggression. Purpose: To determine if the functional mutation in the MAOA promoter gene is present in adult males with mental retardation exhibiting aggressive behavior toward themselves or others. Participants: Males with mental retardation with a history of aggression were compared with two control groups. One control group consisted of males with mental retardation and no history of aggression; matched by age and IQ. The other group was typically developed peers matched by age. Method: Buccle samples were collected from each participant and analyzed via PCR to determine the allele pattern of the MAOA gene. Results: Males that were aggressive were more likely to have the functional mutation of the MAOA gene than the control groups. Implications: Further replication may reveal the MAOA mutation as a diagnostic marker for early intervention services for those predisposed to aggressive behavior. |
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| 73. The Role of Reinforcer Saliency and Establishing Operations on the Attenuation of Response Bias |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| JOANNA LOMAS (Marcus Autism Center), Wayne W. Fisher (Marcus Autism Center), Michael E. Kelley (Marcus Autism Center), Lindsay S. Hauer (Marcus Autism Center), Keisha D. Reese (Marcus Autism Center) |
| Abstract: Individuals with developmental disabilities may engage in biased responding, which is defined as emitting a response at greater levels than would be predicted by the matching law (Fisher & Mazur, 1997). Biased responding may produce incorrect responding and a concomitant decrease in access to reinforcement. In the current experiments, the effects of two manipulations (saliency of reinforcement and establishing operations [EOs]) were evaluated for decreasing response bias and increasing correct responding. In Experiment 1, saliency of reinforcement was manipulated by increasing the size of the card that produced reinforcement. Next, a component analysis was conducted to determine which of the manipulated variables (i.e., changes in the size and contrast of the card) contributed to the increases in correct responding and decreases in biased responding. In Experiment 2, levels of deprivation (i.e., EO manipulations) of both primary (food and water) and secondary (a highly preferred activity [walking]) reinforcers were manipulated to influence choice responding. Results of Experiment 1 suggested that changing the size of the card influenced correct responding. Results of Experiment 2 suggested that arranging sufficient levels of deprivation (i.e., manipulating EOs) may attenuate the effects of response bias by increasing motivation to engage in responses to attain access to particular stimuli. |
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| 74. Descriptive Analysis of Trends in Reporting Treatment Integrity, Consumer Satisfaction, Social Validity, and Follow-up in the Applied Behavior Analysis Literature |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| THEODORE A. HOCH (Northern Virginia Training Center), James Kuhagen (Northern Virginia Training Center), Denise Bartizal (Catawba State Hospital), Douglas Proffitt (Catawba State Hospital), Barbara J. Kaminski (Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine), Thelma Symoun (Northern Virginia Training Center), Mohammad J. Shahbazi (Northern Virginia Training Center) |
| Abstract: The rate with which treatment integrity is reported in applied behavior analysis studies was examined by both Peterson, homer, & Wonderlich (1982) and Gresham, Gansle, & Noell (1993). Both studies concluded that greater attention is needed to both measuring and reporting treatment integrity data in the applied behavior analysis literature. We replicated the procedures employed by Gresham et al., and extended them to include examination of patterns of measuring and reporting consumer satisfaction or social validity, as well as follow-up data collection. Results suggest that the improvements recommended by prior studies have not taken place. Implications for internal and external validity, building a replicative science, and generality of findings are discussed. |
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| 75. Demand Effects on Preference in Human Free Operant Responding |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| JESSICA GLASS (Bancroft NeuroHealth), Frances A. Perrin (Bancroft NeuroHealth), Deborah Anne Haas (Temple University), Patrick R. Progar (Bancroft NeuroHealth), Ralph Spiga (Temple University), Terry J. Page (Bancroft NeuroHealth), April S. Worsdell (Bancroft NeuroHealth) |
| Abstract: Behavioral economic procedures may provide important concepts and methods for assessing and describing the reinforcing effects in the applied setting. Specifically, the concept of demand is central to the behavioral economic approach. According to this perspective, demand assesses consumption as a function of price (e.g. response cost) of the reinforcer (commodity). Participants in the current study consisted of two developmentally delayed adolescent boys. During a session each participant has a choice between a preferred food item and alternative food items. The price of the preferred item, in this case the distance from the participants, was manipulated. Over sessions, the preferred item was placed at ascending and descending order of 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, & 24 inches away from the participant. The concurrently available alternatives were placed 1 ft from the participant. The data indicate that increasing the price of the preferred item increased choices of non-preferred items. Once these behavioral patterns developed successfully, consumption of alternative items increased as consumption of the preferred item decreased. The profile of choices indicated that the alternatives function as economic substitute commodities. The demand equation was fit to the data and explained a significant portion of the variance.
This research was supported by NIDA Grant #DA-12725 |
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| 76. Evaluating Indices of Happiness as a Measure of Preference for Tangible Stimuli from Various Sensory Categories |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| TARA LIEBLEIN (AdvoServ), Cori Morneau (AdvoServ), Christine Strickland (AdvoServ), Cheryl L. Ecott (AdvoServ) |
| Abstract: Recent research has focused on refining preference assessment methodology. The paired choice assessment method has been shown to be effective in assessing preference for tangible stimuli. This study evaluated indices of happiness (Favell, Realon, & Sutton, 1996; Green & Reid, 1996) as a measure of preference for tangible stimuli as compared to the results of a paired choice assessment conducted with the same stimuli. The stimuli selected for assessment were generated from four sensory categories (edible, auditory, tactile, and visual) that were taken from the Reinforcer Assessment for Individuals with Severe Disabilities (Fisher, Piazza, Bowman, & Amari, 1996). Stimuli from each category were evaluated in separate assessments. A paired choice assessment using approach responding as a measure of preference and a single stimulus assessment using indices of happiness (such as clapping and moving the head from side to side) as a measure of preference were conducted for each sensory category. Results and implications of the study will be discussed in terms of the similarity of the results of the two assessments for each category in producing a rank order of preference among the stimuli. |
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| 77. A Comparison of Four Stimulus Preference Assessments for an Individual with Problem Behavior |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| TIMOTHY PISKURA (New England Center for Children), Eileen M. Roscoe (New England Center for Children), David R. Reiner (New England Center for Children) |
| Abstract: Several assessments have recently been developed for identifying preferences of individuals with developmental disabilities. Many variations exist among assessments, such as presentation format (singly, in pairs, in grouped arrays) and the duration of item access. We extended this line of research by comparing methods using varying formats and durations of item access for an individual who exhibited problem behavior maintained by access to tangible items (as identified during a functional analysis). Four different preference assessment methods, including the paired-stimulus (PS) assessment (20-s and 2-min item duration), the multiple-stimulus assessment (20-s item duration), and the response-restriction method (2-min item duration), were compared. Each method was conducted, three times each, in random order, using a multielement design. Selection responses (approach or item interaction) and problem behavior were measured. Results indicated that higher rates of problem behavior occurred during assessments with long item durations (2 min) relative to those with brief item durations (20 sec). In addition, clear hierarchies of preference were more frequently observed during PS and multiple-stimulus assessments than during response-restriction assessments. IOA was collected during at least 33% of the session and averaged at least 90%. |
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| 78. Prevalence of Extinction Bursting in Published Research |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| HEATHER GRADA DURBECK (University of Nevada, Reno), Michele D. Wallace (University of Nevada, Reno), James Summers (University of Nevada, Reno) |
| Abstract: Forty-six publications were reviewed and graphic displays of data were analyzed to determine the prevalence of extinction bursts. Articles from Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, Research in Developmental Disorders, and Behavioral Interventions were included if the function of the behavior was determined and the intervention included some form of extinction. Results indicate that the occurrence of extinction bursting when extinction is implemented alone is similar than when extinction is implemented in conjunction with other treatments. A breakdown of topographies of behavior, as well as behaviors per function and setting will be provided. |
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| 79. Comparison of 5 and 10-Minute Functional Analysis Results |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| JOHN M. HUETE (Kennedy Krieger Institute), Charmaine Smith (Kennedy Krieger Institute) |
| Abstract: While functional analysis (FA) methodology is an effective means of assessing problem behavior, the time required to complete an assessment may limit its utility in many outpatient settings. Using visual inspection of FA graphs, Wallace and Iwata (1999) found general similarity of results for varying session lengths; but cautioned that response rates may significantly vary as a function of session length. The current study examines FA results for 27 participants seen in an outpatient clinic for severe behavior, including self-injury, aggression, disruptions, dangerous acts, and pica. Cumulative records for each FA session were examined with the 5 and 10-minute behavior response totals calculated. Inter-rater reliability, calculated for 26% of participants, was 99.8%. For each behavior, paired-samples t-tests were conducted comparing total responses between the first and last 5 minutes of sessions. Results showed that across all behaviors, more responses tended to occur in the last five minutes of sessions; however, the differences between the first and last 5 minutes were not statistically significant. This suggests that shortening FA session length to 5 minutes does not significantly alter response results. Implications for expediting functional analyses are discussed. |
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| 80. Generalization of the Deck: A Comparison of Generalization Strategies in Adults with Developmental Disabilities |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| KIMBERLEE ROMICK (University of Nevada, Reno), W. Larry Williams (University of Nevada, Reno), Megan D. Nollet (University of Nevada, Reno) |
| Abstract: One problem that is observed frequently in persons with developmental disabilities is a lack of social skills. There are not many methods of teaching these skills to individuals that have been empirically validated. One method that has been empirically evaluated consists of a social skills game called “Stacking the Deck” in which a deck of specialized cards that consist of six skill categories (Fox, McMorrow, & Schloss, 1983) is used. One problem with this method of teaching social skills involves the generalization of these skills from the game setting to all other settings (Wong, Morgan, Crowley, Baker, 1996). The present study replicates and extends the effectiveness of the game format to teach social skills to three adults with developmental disabilities. The game’s effectiveness will be extended by examining generalization strategies to determine which strategies will be more effective to promote generalization of social skills. |
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| 81. Effects of A Program to Reinforce Appropriate Social Behavior on the Reduction of Aggression and Self-Injury |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| SHARON K. KELL (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Carrie Smiley (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Scott Parks (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Jerre R. Brimer (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Susan C. Plutowski (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Jim Crawford (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Ellen K. Taylor (The Learning Tree, Inc.), Robert W. Montgomery (Reinforcement Unlimited LLC) |
| Abstract: This poster will present effects of a behavioral treatment package that included social skills training, reinforcement for appropriate social interactions and a cost for aggression and self-injury on the occurrence of aggression and self-injury of a student. The poster will include information on the successful reduction and elimination of psychotropic medications. A discussion of this student's increased access to less restrictive settings including public school and competitive employment will be presented. Data will be presented to show the program effects on reduction in and maintenance of 0 levels of aggression to others and self-injury by this student. |
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| 82. Teaching Discriminations of Emotions to Persons with Traumatic Brain Injury Using the International Affective Picture System |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| STACEY L. SMALL (Southern Illinois University Carbondale), Mark R. Dixon (Southern Illinois University Carbondale) |
| Abstract: The purpose of the present study is to examine the use of a conditional discrimination training procedure to teach persons with traumatic brain injury verbal descriptions of emotion. Adults with traumatic brain injury were exposed to a subset of the International Affective Picture System and were asked to rate each picture on an emotional rating scale (e.g., happy to sad; angry to peaceful). Baseline data of these ratings were compared to a matched control group and large n normative data. Afterwards, participants were trained to discriminate emotional states by matching a sample word of a specific emotion to a comparison stimulus of a photograph that was presented during baseline. Upon successful completion of the conditional discrimination training, participants were again exposed to the rating task used during baseline. Results show that persons with traumatic brain injury often fail to rate emotionally arousing photographs with the same degree of sensitivity as published normative data or matched control participants. However, after training, these participants do in fact improve their ability to discriminate emotional states. Implications for the study of private events in the science of behavior are discussed. |
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| 83. Using Protective Equipment as a Reinforcer for Treatment of SIB |
| Area: DDA; Domain: Applied Research |
| ATLI F. MAGNUSSON (New England Center for Children), Eileen M. Roscoe (New England Center for Children), Daniel Gould (New England Center for Children), Allen J. Karsina (New England Center for Children) |
| Abstract: This study evaluated the use of protective equipment in treating self-injurious behavior (SIB) in an 8-year-old boy diagnosed with autism. Results of an analogue functional analysis revealed that SIB was not maintained by social reinforcement, as indicated by undifferentiated responding across all conditions. During baseline, the participant wore protective equipment (a helmet) continuously. During treatment, protective equipment was removed contingent on SIB and re-applied contingent on completion of a simple task with no SIB. Multi element and multiple baseline designs were used to evaluate treatment effects. Results showed substantial reduction in SIB during treatment as compared to baseline. Follow-up probes showed that treatment was also effective in maintaining low levels of SIB in the participant’s regular classroom. Interobserver agreement will be collected in at least 30% of sessions across all conditions. |
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