Abstract
We evaluated the effects of client positioning on the occurrence of self-injurious behavior (i.e., repetitive head weaving
resulting in tissue damage and hair loss) exhibited by a child with Duane and Goldenhar syndromes. First, we conducted a functional
analysis of head weaving, the results of which suggested that the behavior was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Next,
we conducted a preference assessment to identify stimuli that would result in high levels of appropriate engagement and low
levels of head weaving. Following the preference assessment, we evaluated the influence of client position on the occurrence
of head weaving with results suggesting that body position (i.e., lying in a supine position) had an evocative effect on the
occurrence of this response. Finally, we implemented an antecedent-based treatment consisting of both access to preferred
items and manipulation of client body position.
resulting in tissue damage and hair loss) exhibited by a child with Duane and Goldenhar syndromes. First, we conducted a functional
analysis of head weaving, the results of which suggested that the behavior was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Next,
we conducted a preference assessment to identify stimuli that would result in high levels of appropriate engagement and low
levels of head weaving. Following the preference assessment, we evaluated the influence of client position on the occurrence
of head weaving with results suggesting that body position (i.e., lying in a supine position) had an evocative effect on the
occurrence of this response. Finally, we implemented an antecedent-based treatment consisting of both access to preferred
items and manipulation of client body position.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Article
- Pages 1-10
- DOI 10.1007/s10882-011-9262-0
- Authors
- William J. Higgins, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Terry S. Falcomata, The Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Henry S. Roane, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Kasey M. Thomas, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Journal Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities
- Online ISSN 1573-3580
- Print ISSN 1056-263X