Utilizing Functional Assessment, Behavioral Consultation and Videotape Review of Treament to Reduce Aggression

Abstract

The present study examined the use of a Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible (DM) procedure paired with a response suppression procedure to decrease aggresion and increase pro-social behavior of a student with mental retardation and autism. These procedures were applied in a rural, self-contained special education program using a variation of a multiple baseline design. Data over the course of the intervention demonstrated that aggression (hitting, biting, pinching) was reduced concurrent with an increase in pro-social behaviors (apropriate social interaction, communication attempts). In addition, the results suggest, the importance of usine a functional assessment of the problem, the benefits of utilizing the school psychologist as a behavioral consultant in developing, implementing and evaluating treatment and that treatment integrity can be monitored and improved through the use of videotape review for feedback to treatment staff.