Purpose:
The purpose of this research is to explore experimental approaches for improving the durability and generalization of reinforcement-based behavioral interventions. While such interventions are highly effective for reducing challenging behaviors and teaching new skills, their effectiveness can diminish over time due to environmental changes, implementation inconsistencies, or reductions in reinforcement schedules. This study investigates how cognitive and behavioral factors influence treatment outcomes and tests innovative strategies to enhance the long-term success of behavior-change interventions.
Study Objectives:
Evaluate the feasibility of using innovative reinforcement-based tactics to enhance the durability of behavioral interventions.
Investigate how individual factors, such as timing perception, reward sensitivity, and decision-making, impact treatment outcomes.
Assess generalization and maintenance of newly acquired skills across various environmental contexts and with different individuals.
Methods and Procedures:
Participants will engage in a series of assessments and training sessions designed to identify and target challenging behaviors, replace them with functional communication skills, and evaluate the robustness of behavior change under varying conditions. The procedures include:
Preference Assessment:
Identifying preferred items and activities to use as reinforcers during treatment.
Competing Stimulus Assessment:
Identifying activities that engage participants during periods when high-preference items are unavailable.
Functional Behavioral Assessment:
Using interviews, direct observations, and experimental analyses to identify antecedents and consequences maintaining challenging behaviors, such as tantrums or crying.
Functional Communication Training (FCT):
Teaching participants alternative communication skills, such as requesting attention, that serve the same function as challenging behaviors.
Generalization and Maintenance Training:
Testing participants' ability to transfer learned skills to novel environments and individuals by systematically varying environmental contexts and reinforcement conditions.
