Home-Based Video Modeling on Food Selectivity of Children With an Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of video modeling – in the home setting – on food selectivity of three children with an autism spectrum disorder. Methods: Using a multiple baseline experimental design, the researcher implemented an in home video modeling intervention during dinner for all three participants. Intervention consisted of a video modeling condition, a video modeling plus reinforcement condition, and follow-up probes conducted for five months after the departure of the researcher. Results: The video modeling alone resulted in an increased acceptance of food by participants. When reinforcement was added to the video modeling, a higher level of food acceptance occurred for all three participants. Conclusion: The results suggest that video modeling was effective in increasing food acceptance, but food acceptance was higher for all three participants when reinforcement was added. Follow-up probes conducted for five months after the departure of the researcher suggest that the video modeling intervention was responsible for the increased food acceptance.

Keywords:

• Autism
• food selectivity
• parent training
• video modeling