Zarcone, J. R., Fisher, W. W., & Piazza, C. C. (1996).
Analysis of free-time contingencies as positive versus negative reinforcement.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
29, 247-250.
Providing a short break contingent on completed work may increase
responding through positive reinforcement (e.g., access to
preferred activities) or negative reinforcement (e.g., escape
from work). In this investigation, three analyses conducted with
a boy with profound mental retardation showed that (a) a 20-s
break increased responding more than a positive reinforcer (cola)
did, and (b) the reinforcing effects of a 20-s break were
affected by the availability of positive reinforcers during the
break.
DESCRIPTORS: behavioral assessment, negative reinforcement,
positive reinforcement, reinforcer assessment, free-time
contingencies