Critchfield, T. S., & Kollins, S. H. (2001).
Temporal discounting: Basic research and the analysis of socially important behavior.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
34, 101-122.
Recent basic research on human temporal discounting is reviewed
to illustrate procedures, summarize key findings, and draw
parallels with both nonhuman animal research and conceptual
writings on self-control. Lessons derived from this research are
then applied to the challenge of analyzing socially important
behaviors such as drug abuse, eating and exercise, and
impulsiveness associated with attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder. Attending to the broader temporal context in which
behavior occurs may aid in the analysis of socially important
behavior. Applying this perspective to the study of behavior in
natural environments also highlights the importance of combining
methodological flexibility with conceptual rigor to promote the
extension of applied behavior analysis to a broader array of
socially important behaviors.
DESCRIPTORS: _temporal discounting, delayed consequences, self control,
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, drug abuse