title: Oral feeding treatment of children with chronic food refusal and multiple developmental disabilities.
abstract: This research concerned the treatment of chronic food refusal in 2 children with multiple developmental disabilities. Therapeutic intervention consisted of a multicomponent treatment package that included the (a) elimination of feeding "demands" that provoked child agitation, (b) incorporation of sensory stimulation as contingent reinforcement, and (c) gradual introduction of the requirements for oral consumption. Each child received treatment during individualized training sessions and, subsequently, under naturalistic mealtime conditions. Consistent oral consumption was achieved rapidly by both children. Results were maintained at follow-up assessments ranging from 4 to 12 months.
authors.affiliation: Psychological & Educational Resource Associates, Concord, MA.
authors.forename: J K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Luiselli
mesh_terms: D001245:Association Learning; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D002648:Child; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D004750:Enteral Nutrition; D005183:Failure to Thrive / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D005518:Food Preferences / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012055:Reinforcement Schedule