Using a choice assessment to predict reinforcer effectiveness.
A choice assessment has been found to be a more accurate method of identifying preferences than is single-item presentation. However, it is not clear whether the effectiveness of reinforcement varies positively with the degree of preference (i.e., whether the relative preference based on the results of a choice assessment predicts relative reinforcer effectiveness). In the current study, we attempted to address this question by categorizing stimuli as high, middle, and low preference based on the results of a choice assessment, and then comparing the reinforcing effectiveness of these stimuli using a concurrent operants paradigm. High-preference stimuli consistently functioned as reinforcers for all 4 clients. Middle-preference stimuli functioned as reinforcers for 2 clients, but only when compared with low-preference stimuli. Low-preference stimuli did not function as reinforcers when compared to high- and middle-preference stimuli. These results suggest that a choice assessment can be used to predict the relative reinforcing value of various stimuli, which, in turn, may help to improve programs for clients with severe to profound disabilities.
Piazza
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CC
Neurobehavioral Unit, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
Fisher
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WW
Hagopian
L P
LP
Bowman
L G
LG
Toole
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D002755:Choice Behavior; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D004314:Down Syndrome / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D010343:Patient Admission; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D012919:Social Behavior; D014040:Token Economy; D016896:Treatment Outcome