Naturalistic approach to the treatment of stereotypy

Document Type

Thesis

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Psychology

Degree

M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis

Date Completed

2022

First Committee Member

Ahearn, William

Second Committee Member

Thompson, Rachel

Third Committee Member

Bourret, Jason

Abstract

"Stereotypic behavior is a diagnostic marker for autism spectrum disorder and is a frequent target response for intervention when it interferes with daily life. This study replicated Steinhauser et al. (2021). Differential reinforcement for alternative behavior (DRA) was arranged in a multiple baseline design across four naturalistic contexts to evaluate the effects on the level of stereotypy for two participants that attended a residential school for individuals with autism. Then, using an ABAB design, context-specific redirection (C-RD) was implemented in combination with the DRA if stereotypy persisted at high levels. The goal of C-RD was to have the participant engaged in the current activity and to decrease stereotypy. The results of this study suggested that directly targeting appropriate behavior was effective in decreasing stereotypy in the mand initiation and solo leisure contexts for both participants. Context-specific redirection was also effective in decreasing stereotypy and increasing appropriate behavior in the verbal operant and interactive leisure contexts for both participants. It was also discussed that intervention may not be necessary depending on the context and level of stereotypy."

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