An analysis of the selective effects of NCR with punishment targeting problem behavior associated with positive affect

Among individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral problems, self-injury and aggression are often associated with negative affect such a s crying. In the current report, we present data on two children who displa yed problem behaviors (screaming and self-injury) that were often associate d with positive affect. In contrast to their other problem behaviors that w ere socially mediated, these behaviors were maintained independent of socia l consequences. One concern about treating problem behavior associated with positive affect is that the treatment may produce generalized reductions i n positive affect. In both cases presented in the current study, the reduct ive effects of a treatment targeting these behaviors were highly selective, producing decreases in screaming and self-injury, while minimally affectin g affect. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.