Controlling extremely dangerous aggressive outbursts when functional analysis fails.

J R Dura

doi:10.2466/pr0.1991.69.2.451

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Controlling extremely dangerous aggressive outbursts when functional analysis fails.

J R Dura

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Abstract

This article describes and illustrates a treatment program aimed at addressing intermittent extremely dangerous aggressive behavior in an 11-year-old girl who was blind, multiply handicapped, and profoundly mentally retarded. In the month preceding treatment she had injured a peer, a paid careprovider, and her mother. Functional analysis produced no clear antecedents to aggression. Punishment was used to introduce a superordinate contingency. Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior combined with contingent restraint reduced, then eliminated aggression. Follow-up at an age equivalent of 4 years, 6 months indicated a continued absence of aggression. Results are discussed in regards to the balance between research methodology, agency policy, right to effective treatment, and social validity.

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Aggression Behavior Therapy Child Dangerous Behavior Persons with Disabilities Female Follow-Up Studies Humans Intellectual Disability Punishment Reinforcement, Psychology Reward Case Reports Journal Article

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J R Dura. 1991. Controlling extremely dangerous aggressive outbursts when functional analysis fails.. https://doi.org/10.2466/pr0.1991.69.2.451

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