The use of adapted leisure materials to reinforce correct head positioning in a brain-injured adult.
This study aims to highlight the possible use of adapted leisure materials in the modification of behavioural responses within the brain-injured population. Single-case methodology was used to evaluate the effectiveness of contingent reinforcement in promoting head posture in an adult brain-injured male. A microswitch was implanted within a headband worn by the subject, attached to a portable radio and positioned such that correct head posture operated the switch, completed the electric circuit and activated the music. The target behaviour was defined as the percentage of time in a walking programme where correct head posture was maintained. The experimental procedure incorporated an A-BC-B-BC-A design and represented the following phases: (A) baseline; (BC) headband + music and (B) headband, no music. A follow-up assessment was also undertaken 1 month later. Overall, statistical analysis revealed a significant increase in the target behaviour and that this improvement was directly contingent on the provision of music inforcement. Results are discussed in further detail and the clinical significance of this finding, over and above the statistical significance, is highlighted in terms of this individual's rehabilitation.
Department of Psychology, George Eliot Hospital, Nuneaton, UK.
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Kearney
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Fussey
D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D001925:Brain Damage, Chronic / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009146:Music; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000295:instrumentation; D011187:Posture; D011845:Radio; D012055:Reinforcement Schedule