Hanf-model parent training programs (e.g., Forehand, Eyberg, Barkley)
include a spank as the primary consequence for timeout escape. Because
many agencies provide services to groups for whom a spank is not an o
ption (e.g., foster parents), an alternative back-up was developed, th
e ''two-chair hold'' technique. Children referred for treatment of beh
avior problems (n = 22) were assessed using the Eyberg Child Behavior
Inventory, parent interview, and behavioral observations in the clinic
. Related measures t-tests comparing pre- and post-treatment scores in
dicate that the two-chair technique was successful for decreasing time
out escape and improving overall behavior. However, a greater number o
f therapy sessions was required to obtain the desired effects than is
typical in interventions using a spank as the escape consequence. Clin
ical issues regarding the use of the two-chair hold technique with def
iant preschoolers are discussed.