Competition between positive and negative reinforcement in the treatment of escape behavior

Citation
Js. Lalli et al., Competition between positive and negative reinforcement in the treatment of escape behavior, J APPL BE A, 32(3), 1999, pp. 285-296
Citations number
17
Categorie Soggetti
Psycology
Journal title
JOURNAL OF APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
ISSN journal
00218855 → ACNP
Volume
32
Issue
3
Year of publication
1999
Pages
285 - 296
Database
ISI
SICI code
0021-8855(199923)32:3<285:CBPANR>2.0.ZU;2-H
Abstract
We compared the effects of reinforcing compliance with either positive rein forcement (edible items) or negative reinforcement (a break) on 5 participa nts' escape-maintained problem behavior. Both procedures were assessed with or without extinction. Results showed that compliance was higher and probl em behavior was lower for all participants when compliance produced an edib le item rather than a break. Treatment gains were achieved without the use of extinction. Results are discussed regarding the use of positive reinforc ement to treat escape behavior.