Successful operant conditioning procedures with an institutionalized aggressive geriatric patient.
The present investigation utilized a modified differential reinforcement of other behaviors (DRO) schedule with an exclusionary time-out procedure to treat a sixty-nine year-old aggressive male. Dependent measures included confirmed incidents of physical and verbal aggressive behavior monitored across an ABAB design with a four month follow-up. During the experimental conditions, contingent tangible reinforcers were provided for non-aggressive behavior. Such rewards were progressively diminished over the course of treatment utilizing a systematic fading scheme. Results indicated a clear demonstration of behavioral control and clinically significant treatment effects during both experimental periods. Implications for future research are discussed.
Vaccaro
F J
FJ
Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11550.
D000368:Aged; D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003216:Conditioning, Operant; D006801:Humans; D007326:Institutionalization; D008297:Male; D010554:Personality Disorders / Q000628:therapy*