Empirically derived consequences to treat rumination. (20th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Migan‐Gandonou, Julyse A.; Leon, Yanerys
• Is Part Of: Behavioral interventions. Volume 35:Number 1(2020)
• Page Start: 166
• Page End: 177
• Publication Date: 2019-12-20
• Subjects: automatic reinforcement -- punishment -- rumination -- stimulus avoidance assessment; People with mental disabilities -- Behavior modification -- Periodicals; Behavior therapy -- Periodicals; 616.89142
• DOI: 10.1002/bin.1698
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1072-0847

Abstract

Abstract : We evaluated a contingent oral hygiene procedure on rumination emitted by a 9‐year‐old boy with autism. Results of a functional analysis screening suggested rumination was maintained by automatic reinforcement. We conducted a stimulus avoidance assessment to identify a hierarchy of potential consequences to be used in treatment. During treatment, contingent toothbrushing resulted in a 97% decrease in rumination. Finally, we transitioned to a less intrusive intervention (i.e., contingent mouthwash spray) and rumination remained at near‐zero levels. Treatment effects generalized to different settings and caregivers and maintained over a 4‐year period.