Concurrent reinforcement schedules for problem behavior and appropriate behavior: experimental applications of the matching law.
This study evaluated how children who exhibited functionally equivalent problem and appropriate behavior allocate responding to experimentally arranged reinforcer rates. Relative reinforcer rates were arranged on concurrent variable-interval schedules and effects on relative response rates were interpreted using the generalized matching equation. Results showed that relative rates of responding approximated relative rates of reinforcement. Finally, interventions for problem behavior were evaluated and differential reinforcement of alternative behavior and extinction procedures were implemented to increase appropriate behavior and decrease problem behavior. Practical considerations for the application of the generalized matching equation specific to severe problem behavior are discussed, including difficulties associated with defining a reinforced response, and obtaining steady state responding in clinical settings.
Kennedy Krieger Institute and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Borrero@kennedykrieger.org
Carrie S W
CS
Borrero
Timothy R
TR
Vollmer
John C
JC
Borrero
Jason C
JC
Bourret
Kimberly N
KN
Sloman
Andrew L
AL
Samaha
Jesse
J
Dallery
D002648:Child; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D002755:Choice Behavior; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D015233:Models, Statistical; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011340:Problem Solving; D012055:Reinforcement Schedule; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D013997:Time Factors