John C. Borrero, Monica T. Francisco, Alayna T. Haberlin, Noël A. Ross, & Sandeep K. Sran (2007).
A unit price evaluation of severe problem behavior.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
40, 463-474.
We evaluated problem behavior exhibited by 6 individuals with
developmental disabilities using the behavioral economic conceptualization
of unit price. Descriptive observations were conducted during interactions
between the participants and their primary care providers in a clinical laboratory,
the participants’ homes, or school. Data were recorded on potential reinforcers
and problem behavior. After identifying reinforcers for each participant’s
problem behavior by way of functional analysis, the descriptive data were
analyzed retrospectively, using the cost-benefit ratio described by the
concept of unit price. Results showed that demand was elastic and produced
monotonic response output curves. The results represent an extension of the
concept of unit price to severe problem behavior under naturally occurring
environmental conditions.
DESCRIPTORS: unit price, behavioral economics, descriptive analysis, severe problem behavior, functional analysis