Further evaluation of noncontingent reinforcement to treat mealtime problem behavior

Abstract

AbstractWe evaluated the effects of noncontingent reinforcement (NCR) without escape extinction (EE) on problem behavior emitted by a young boy with autism spectrum disorder during meals. Results indicated that NCR (i.e., continuous access to a highly preferred activity) was effective in reducing problem behavior and moderately increasing food acceptance. Subsequently, we evaluated a total session‐based thinning of the NCR schedule. Although problem behavior remained low during schedule thinning, differential reinforcement was necessary to maintain adequate levels of food acceptance.