Evaluation of resurgence following differential reinforcement of alternative behavior with and without extinction in a human-operant model

<p>Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) plus extinction for problem behavior is an evidence-based intervention for individuals diagnosed with autism. However, researchers have recently begun investigating DRA without extinction, given this treatment component may be unsafe or impractical to implement in practice. Although preliminary research has indicated DRA without extinction as an effective intervention alternative, little is known about the long-term implications of this intervention, especially as it relates to resurgence. This study investigated resurgence following DRA with and without extinction using a three-phase resurgence assessment in a human-operant arrangement across 60 college-aged participants. Several study iterations were required to address technical and procedural limitations, which are documented and described in detail within this document. The results of the final iteration showed no statistically significant differences in the prevalence, magnitude, or persistence of resurgence between groups. Discussion of these findings, clinical implications, and directions for future translational research are discussed.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Level thesis:degree_level

Open Access Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Psychology

Year dc:date.available

2024

Author dc:creator

• DeWitt, Skylar

Contributors dc:contributor

• Adam M. Briggs, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA, Chair
• Thomas J. Waltz, Ph.D., Ph.D.
• James T. Todd, Ph.D.

• differential reinforcement
• extinction
• resurgence
• translational research
• Psychology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://commons.emich.edu/theses/1255

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:commons.emich.edu:theses-2600