An Evaluation of a Lag Schedule of Reinforcement and Progressive Time Delay on Mand Variability

Research output: Contribution to conferencePresentation

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may mand repetitively, using the same topography for preferred items. This could affect their ability to get their wants and needs met as well as affect social relationships. Previous research suggests that lag schedules of reinforcement can increase the variability of vocal mands. The current study evaluated the effects of a lag schedule of reinforcement and progressive time delay (TD) on the rate of vocal mands through a multiple baseline across behaviors with embedded reversal design with two adults with ASD. Two conditions were used to assess variable responding when variability was (Lag 1 + TD) and was not (Lag 0) required to produce reinforcement. During Lag 0, reinforcement was contingent on instances of independent manding (of any topography). During Lag 1 +TD, reinforcement was contingent on instances of independent and prompted variant responses. A progressive TD was used to transfer stimulus control from an echoic prompt to the establishing operation. Results indicated that a Lag 1 schedule of reinforcement with progressive TD promoted acquisition of novel vocal mand topographies for all participants, with varying effects on rates of independent variant mands.
Original languageAmerican English
DOIs
StatePublished - May 24 2020
EventAssociation for Behavior Analysis International 46th Annual Convention - Virtual
Duration: May 24 2020 → …

Conference

ConferenceAssociation for Behavior Analysis International 46th Annual Convention
Period5/24/20 → …

Disciplines

  • Psychology
  • School Psychology

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