title: Application of operant procedures in a group of institutionalized aggressive geriatric patients.
abstract: This study used positive reinforcement schedules versus no reinforcement on a group of 6 highly aggressive, institutionalized elderly patients. Dependent measures included confirmed incidents of physical and verbal aggressive behavior monitored across an ABAB design with a 4-month phase-out period. Results indicated that aggressive behavior can be significantly decreased in a group setting and subsequently generalized to ward behavior. Ancillary aspects of the study included the role of tangible and back-up reinforcers and staff attitude and behavior. Implications for future research are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Hofstra University.
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Vaccaro
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003216:Conditioning, Operant; D003704:Dementia / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011567:Psychiatric Department, Hospital; D012055:Reinforcement Schedule; D014754:Violence