Abstract
Although our conceptual framework and technology about establishing generalized repertoires of adaptive behavior have advanced in recent years, there has been less progress with regard to achieving generalized reduction and elimination of difficult behaviors. This paper discusses a conceptual approach to the problem based on the logic of functional analysis and the competing stimulus control of behaviors, and presents relevant data on a difficult behavior (grabbing eyeglasses) exhibited by a young adult with retardation and visual impairment. Assessment and intervention strategies were implemented based on a competing stimulus control framework. Results illustrate the types of problems that applied researchers and practitiooners confront in attempting to achieve desired stimulus control relationships and reduction or elimination of difficult behaviors.
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O'Neill, R.E., Horner, R.H., O'Brien, M. et al. Generalized reduction of difficult behaviors: Analysis and intervention in a competing behaviors framework. J Dev Phys Disabil 3, 5–21 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01046175
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01046175