We used a reversal design to evaluate the effects of a self-monitoring system and differential reinforcement of low rates of behavior on decreasing repetitive body movements in a child with autism. A trial-based functional analysis revealed that repetitive body movements were maintained by automatic reinforcement. Treatment consisted of teaching the participant to use a self-monitoring system to monitor the occurrence of repetitive body movements.A stimulus control analysis revealed the self-monitoring system acquired stimulus control over the repetitive body movements, in that they were more likely to occur in the absence of the system than in its presence. The self-monitoring system was implemented with a differential reinforcement of low rates of behavior, and their combined effects were evaluated within a reversal design.Repetitive body movements decreased with the implementation of the treatment. The use of self-monitoring systems to target problem behavior is discussed.
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