Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) to reduce aggressive behavior following traumatic brain injury

Severe brain injury can result in significant neurobehavioral and social fu nctioning impairment. In rehabilitation settings, behavioral problems of ag gression and nonadherence to therapeutic activities can pose barriers to ma ximal recovery of function. Behavioral interventions seem to be effective i n reducing problem behavior among individuals recovering from severe brain trauma. but well-controlled studies examining the efficacy of such interven tions are sparse. This article presents a single-case. multiple-baseline st udy of a differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) procedure in a 28-year-old, brain-injured male with aggressive behavior problems. The proc edure successfully reduced the frequency of problem behavior by up to 74%, maintained at 1-month follow-up. Implications of this intervention for indi viduals with brain injury are discussed, and testing of this procedure usin g a between-group design seems indicated.