ASSESSMENT OF A NEW PROCEDURE TO PREVENT TIMEOUT ESCAPE IN PRESCHOOLERS

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.