Treatment of Multiple Behavioural Problems in a Retarded Township Child a Case Study

Abstract

In this article the successful behavioural treatment of a seven-year-old retarded black township girl is described. The girl presented with (a) pica (indiscriminate eating of non-food substances such as soap, earth, paraffin, candles, rubbish etc.), (b) hazardous unsupervised playing with matches, (c) aggressive behaviour and prolonged crying, and (d) poor development of self-care and participation in household tasks. Contact with the therapist involved 10 one-hour sessions. The pica was treated by discrimination training and a home token economy. The playing with matches was treated by satiation and by reward for playing with matches only when supervised. The aggression was treated by social interventions aimed at eliminating provocation, and integrating her into family and peer activities. In addition, the mother was trained to model and reward self-care behaviours and performance of household tasks. All four targets were successfully treated initially: the pica, unsupervised playing with matches and aggressive outbursts were eliminated, and a marked increase in independent behaviour was achieved. In addition, the mother reported an increase in the girl's self-confidence and assertiveness. Results of follow-up interviews at eight, 12 and 24 months are reported.