The stability of function of automatically reinforced vocal stereotypy over time

Abstract

Although prior research has suggested the function of socially reinforced problem behavior can change across time, the stability of the function of automatically reinforced behavior is largely unknown. Further, some authors have suggested automatically reinforced behavior is likely to enter into socially mediated contingencies. The present study compared 2 functional analyses conducted on the same target behavior at least 1 year apart. Participants were 6 individuals diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability displaying automatically reinforced vocal stereotypy. Results indicated the function of each participant's vocal stereotypy remained stable over time (i.e., no new functions were acquired); however, future research on functional stability for automatically reinforced behavior of other topographies is needed.

On the validity of data produced by isolated and synthesized contingencies during the functional analysis of problem behavior

“…This model of functional analysis has been replicated in several hundred studies (Beavers et al, 2013;Hanley et al, 2003). It has been used in assessing the operant function of other topographies of problem behavior besides self-injury (e.g., aggression, property destruction, inappropriate vocalizations, elopement, food refusal, and stereotypy; e.g., Bachmeyer et al, 2019;Boyle & Adamson, 2017;Fisher et al, 2013;Hausman et al, 2020;Saini et al, 2019;Shawler et al, 2020;Wunderlich et al, 2020). It has also been used to illustrate the flexibility of test conditions for other unique sources of social positive reinforcement (e.g., access to leisure items and food) and social negative reinforcement (e.g., the termination of social interactions, medical routines, and loud noises; Harper et al, 2013;Iwata, Pace et al, 1990;McCord et al, 2001;Schlichenmeyer et al, 2013;Tiger et al, 2009).…”