The increase and control of verbal signals in the bladder training of a seventeen-month-old child--a case study.

Abstract

SUMMARYThis investigation attempted to increase the frequency and accuracy of verbal signaling prior to urination in a young child. The child was a seventeen month old female whose signalling behavior was observed to be intermittent and inconsistent. Operant procedures were introduced by the parents that consisted of reinforcing signalling and signalled urinations with candy and praise. When the reinforcing contingencies were present, signal frequency and accuracy increased above baseline level. The withdrawal of the reinforcers resulted in a rapid decline in responding and reinstatement of reinforcement was accompanied by an increase in signal frequency and accuracy above baseline. These findings indicate that under conditions of contingent reinforcement, the child withheld urination until she had signalled and was placed on her potty chair. It is suggested that parents can increase the efficiency of toilet training when the appropriate procedures are used.