Randomized interdependent group contingencies: Group reinforcement with a twist

This investigation examined the effects of randomizing components of an int erdependent group contingency procedure on the target behavior of 12 studen ts in a second-grade classroom in a rural southeastern school district. Spe cifically, using a multiphase time-series design (i.e., A-B-A-C-B-C design) levels of disruptive behavior were compared across baseline, an interventi on phase with only randomized reinforcers (the RR+ phase), and an intervent ion phase with all components randomized (R-ALL phase). Results suggest tha t both interventions were successful in decreasing levels of disruptive beh avior, with the R-ALL phase resulting in lower mean, and more stable, perce ntages of disruptive behavior. The advantages to randomizing components wit hin a group contingency procedure are discussed, because this procedure not only incorporates the strengths of an interdependent group contingency, bu t also addresses the limitations. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.