Slifer, K. J., Koontz, K. L., & Cataldo, M. F. (2002).
Operant-contingency-based preparation of children for functional magnetic resonance imaging.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
35, 191-194.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is used to study
brain function during behavioral tasks. The participation of
pediatric subjects is problematic because reliable task
performance and control of head movement are simultaneously
required. Differential reinforcement decreased head motion and
improved vigilance task performance in 4 children (2 with
behavioral disorders) undergoing simulated fMRI scans. Results
show that behavior analysis techniques can improve child
cooperation during fMRI procedures.
DESCRIPTORS: _differential reinforcement, performance accuracy,
motion control, behavioral pediatrics, magnetic resonance imaging