Richman, D. M., Wacker, D. P., Asmus, J. M., Casey, S. D., & Andelman, M. (1999).
Further analysis of problem behavior in response class hierarchies.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
32, 269-283.
A functional analysis identified the reinforcers for 3
participants' problem behavior, but only relatively mild problem
behaviors (e.g., screaming, disruption) were observed when all
topographies produced tested consequences. We then conducted an
extinction analysis in which specific topographies produced a
reinforcer while all other topographies were on extinction. The
extinction analysis confirmed that the same reinforcer identified
in the initial functional analysis maintained more severe
topographies of problem behavior (e.g., aggression). In addition,
results of the extinction analysis indicated that 2 of the
participants displayed patterns of responding consistent with a
response class hierarchy hypothesis, in which less severe problem
behavior frequently occurred prior to more severe topographies.
The 3rd participant displayed a response pattern indicative of
differential reinforcement effects.
DESCRIPTORS: _functional analysis, response class, response class
hierarchies, covariation, aberrant behavior, extinction