bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
There Is No Meaningful Relationship Between Television Exposure and Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Stevens Tara , Mulsow Miriam
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE. The recent but methodologically limited longitudinal study of the adverse attentional effects of television viewing in early childhood suggests a possible association. The purpose of the present study was to extend this investigation to a more current sample of kindergarten students using structural equation modeling, which allows for the simultaneous evaluation of predictors.

METHODS. Two samples were randomly selected from nationally representative data collected from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study. A structural equation model was developed positing a relationship between kindergartners' television exposure and subsequent first-grade symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) while controlling for variables related to socioeconomic status and parent involvement. Variables were selected rather than developed and do not include an acceptable measure of ADHD, which limited the scope of the measures used. The model was tested by using the first sample and then cross-validated to the second sample.

RESULTS. Although the adequate fit of the model to the data suggests that children's television exposure during kindergarten was related to symptoms of ADHD during the first grade, the amount of variance accounted for in the ADHD-symptoms variable revealed television exposure as a weak predictor of later ADHD symptoms. Effect sizes for the relationship between television exposure and symptoms of ADHD were close to zero and not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS. Methodologic issues, including participant age, the measurement of ADHD symptoms, and evaluation of the importance of variables, may explain the differences between the present study and the results of others who have found television exposure to be related to attention problems. The measurement of ADHD symptoms through the use of longitudinal databases is an important limitation, because only a small number of items can be selected to represent symptoms. Future research is necessary to address these issues.
Efficacy of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy on Involved Upper-Extremity Use in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy Is Not Age-Dependent
Authors: Gordon Andrew M. , Charles Jeanne , Wolf Steven L.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES. Constraint-induced (CI) movement therapy has been shown recently to be promising for improving upper-limb function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Because little is known about patient characteristics predicting treatment efficacy, not all children may benefit from this intervention. Here we examine the relationship between efficacy of a child-friendly form of CI therapy and age on involved upper-extremity function.

DESIGN. Twenty children with hemiplegic CP age 4 to 13 years received CI therapy and completed evaluations. Based on established functional and neuromaturational changes in hand skill development, the children were divided into a “younger group” (age 4–8 years, n = 12) and “older group” (age 9–13 years, n = 8). Children wore a sling on their noninvolved upper extremity for 6 hours per day for 10 of 12 consecutive days, during which time they were engaged in play and functional activities. Each child was evaluated by trained evaluators who were blinded to the fact that the children received treatment. The evaluations took place once before the intervention and at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after the intervention. Efficacy was examined at the movement efficiency (Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function, subtest 8 of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency), environmental (caregiver frequency and quality of involved upper-limb use), and impairment (strength, tactile sensitivity, and muscle tone) levels.

RESULTS. Children in both age groups had significant improvements in involved hand-movement efficiency and environmental functional limitations, which were retained through the 6-month posttest. However, there were no differences in efficacy between younger and older children. Both hand severity and the children's behavior during testing (number of redirections), with the latter serving as a reasonable correlate for attention during the intervention, were related to changes in performance in the younger group but not in the older group.

CONCLUSIONS. The results suggest that the intensive practice associated with CI therapy can improve movement efficiency and environmental functional limitations among a carefully selected subgroup of children with hemiplegic CP of varying ages and that this efficacy is not age-dependent.
Efficacy of Iron and/or Zinc Supplementation on Cognitive Performance of Lead-Exposed Mexican Schoolchildren: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Rico Javier Alatorre , Kordas Katarzyna , López Patricia , Rosado Jorge L. , Vargas Gonzalo García , Ronquillo Dolores , Stoltzfus Rebecca J.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE. Lead exposure in children has been associated with both global and specific cognitive deficits. Although chelation therapy is advised for children with blood lead concentrations of >44 μg/dL, treatment options for children with lower blood lead values are limited. Because lead absorption is related to children's nutritional status, micronutrient supplements may be 1 strategy for combating low-level, chronic lead exposure. This study was designed to test the efficacy of iron and zinc supplementation for lowering blood lead concentrations and improving cognitive performance in schoolchildren who live in a lead-contaminated city.

METHODS. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled field trial was conducted in public elementary schools in Torreón, an industrialized city in northern Mexico. A metal foundry, located close to the city center and within 3.5 km of 9 schools, was the main source of lead exposure. A total of 602 children who were aged 6 to 8 years and regularly attending first grade in the study schools were enrolled. Children were given 30 mg of iron, 30 mg of zinc, both, or a placebo daily for 6 months. A total of 527 completed the treatment, and 515 were available for long-term follow-up, after another 6 months without supplementation. Eleven cognitive tests of memory, attention, visual-spatial abilities, and learning were administered at baseline and each follow-up.

RESULTS. There were no consistent or lasting differences in cognitive performance among treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS. Daily supplementation with iron and/or zinc may be of limited usefulness for improving cognition in lead-exposed schoolchildren. However, these treatments may be effective in settings with higher prevalence of nutritional deficiencies or in younger children.
Clinical Significance of Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux and Urinary Antibiotic Prophylaxis After Acute Pyelonephritis: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Garin Eduardo H. , Olavarria Fernando , Nieto Victor Garcia , Valenciano Blanca , Campos Alfonso , Young Linda
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES. To evaluate the role of primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in increasing the frequency and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and renal parenchymal damage among patients with acute pyelonephritis and to determine whether urinary antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the frequency and/or severity of UTIs and/or prevents renal parenchymal damage among patients with mild/moderate VUR.

METHODS. Patients 3 months to 18 years of age with acute pyelonephritis, with or without VUR, were assigned randomly to receive urinary antibiotic prophylaxis or not. Patients were monitored every 3 months for 1 year. Dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scans were repeated at 6 months or if there was a recurrence of febrile UTI. Urinalysis and urine culture were performed at each clinic visit. Renal ultrasound scans and voiding cystourethrograms were repeated at the end of 1 year of follow-up monitoring.

RESULTS. Of the 236 patients enrolled in the study, 218 completed the 1-year follow-up monitoring. Groups were similar with respect to age, gender, and reflux grade distribution for those with VUR. No statistically significant differences were found among the groups with respect to rate of recurrent UTI, type of recurrence, rate of subsequent pyelonephritis, and development of renal parenchymal scars.

CONCLUSIONS. After 1 year of follow-up monitoring, mild/moderate VUR does not increase the incidence of UTI, pyelonephritis, or renal scarring after acute pyelonephritis. Moreover, a role for urinary antibiotic prophylaxis in preventing the recurrence of infection and the development of renal scars is not supported by this study.
Assessment of Pediatricians by a Regulatory Authority
Authors: Violato Claudio , Lockyer Jocelyn M. , Fidler Herta
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE. To determine whether it is possible to develop feasible, valid, and reliable multisource feedback data for pediatricians.

METHODS. Surveys with 40, 22, 38, and 37 items were developed for assessment of pediatricians by patients, co-workers, medical colleagues, and themselves, respectively, using 5-point scales with an “unable to assess” category. Items addressed key competencies related to communication skills, professionalism, collegiality, continuing professional development, and collaboration. Each pediatrician was assessed by 25 patients, 8 medical colleagues, and 8 co-workers. Feasibility was assessed with response rates for each instrument. Validity was assessed with rating profiles, the percentage of participants unable to assess the physician for each item, and exploratory factor analyses to determine which items grouped together into scales. Cronbach's α and generalizability coefficient analyses assessed reliability.

RESULTS. One hundred pediatricians participated. The mean number of respondents per physician was 23.4 (93.6%) for patients, 7.6 (94.8%) for co-workers, and 7.6 (95.5%) for medical colleagues. The mean ratings ranged from 4 to 5 for each item on each scale. Few items had high percentages of “unable to assess” responses. The factor analyses revealed a 4-factor solution for the patient survey, a 3-factor solution for the co-worker survey, and a 4-factor solution for the medical colleague survey, accounting for at least 64% of the variance. All instruments had high internal consistency. The generalizability coefficients were .85 for patients, .87 for co-workers, and .78 for medical colleagues.

CONCLUSION. Surveys can be developed to provide feedback data on key competencies.
Analysis of Dog Bites in Children Who Are Younger Than 17 Years
Authors: Schalamon Johannes , Ainoedhofer Herwig , Singer Georg , Petnehazy Thomas , Mayr Johannes , Kiss Katalin , Höllwarth Michael E.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES. This study focuses on the pattern of incidence, mechanisms, and circumstances of accident and injury in a series of pediatric patients who sustained dog bites.

METHODS. In our retrospective survey, the medical charts of all children who were younger than 17 years and sought medical attention after a dog bite between 1994 and 2003 were reviewed. To obtain the total number of each dog breed in the administrative district, we analyzed 5873 files from the community dog registers. For establishment of a risk index, the representation of a dog breed among the total canine population was divided by the frequency of dog bites from this breed.

RESULTS. A total of 341 children (mean age: 5.9 years) were identified. The annual incidence of dog bites was 0.5 per 1000 children between 0 and 16 years of age. Incidence was highest in 1-year-old patients and decreased with increasing age. The relative risk for a dog attack by a German shepherd or a Doberman was ∼5 times higher than that of a Labrador/retriever or cross-breed. The vast majority (82%) of the dogs were familiar to the children. Most (322; 94%) of the children had injuries to 1 body region; in the remaining 19 (6%) children, up to 3 body regions were injured. Of 357 injuries, the face, head, and neck region was the leading site affected (50%). Inpatient treatment was required in 93 (27%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS. Dog bites in children are frequent and influenced by the breed-related behavior of dogs, dog owners, children, and parents. Therefore, prevention strategies should focus on public education and training of dogs and their owners. Children who are younger than 10 years represent the high-risk group for dog attacks.
Randomized Trial of the Early Start Program of Home Visitation: Parent and Family Outcomes
Authors: Fergusson David M. , Grant Hildegard , Horwood L. John , Ridder Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE. To examine the extent to which the Early Start program of home visitation had beneficial consequences in the areas of maternal health, family functioning, family economic circumstances, and exposure to stress and adversity.

METHODS. The study used a randomized, controlled trial design in which 220 families receiving the Early Start program were contrasted with a control series of 223 families not receiving the program. Families were enrolled in the program after population screening conducted by community health nurses. Families were enrolled in the program for up to 36 months. Outcomes were assessed at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after trial entry.

RESULTS. There was a consistent lack of association between maternal and family outcomes and group membership. There were no significant differences between the Early Start and control series in any comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS. This evaluation suggested that the Early Start program failed to lead to parent- and family-related benefits. This absence of benefit for parent/family outcomes is contrasted with the benefits found previously for child-related outcomes, including child health, preschool education, child abuse and neglect, parenting, and behavioral adjustment. This comparison suggests that home visitation programs may provide benefits for child-related outcomes in the absence of parent- or family-related outcomes.
Dietary Energy Intake at the Age of 4 Months Predicts Postnatal Weight Gain and Childhood Body Mass Index
Authors: Ong Ken K. , Emmett Pauline M. , Noble Sian , Ness Andy , Dunger David B. ,   and the ALSPAC Study Team
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE. Rapid infant weight gain has been shown to predict later obesity risk; however, it is unclear which factors influence infant diet and weight gain. The objective of this study was to determine whether different feeding patterns and energy intakes that are provided to infants affect body weight and BMI later in childhood.

METHODS. This representative birth cohort study was conducted in the United Kingdom. Energy intake at age 4 months was estimated from 1-day unweighed dietary records in 881 infants and related to their childhood weight gain and BMI.

RESULTS. Among formula- or mixed-fed infants (N = 582), energy intake was higher in first-born infants (mean ± SE: 2730 ± 29.4 kJ/day; n = 263) than in subsequent-born infants (2620.8 ± 25.2 kJ/day; n = 296). Energy intake at 4 months was also higher in infants who were given solid foods earlier (1–2 months: 2805.6 ± 50.4 kJ/day, n = 89; 2–3 months: 2658.6 ± 25.2 kJ/day, n = 339; 4+ months: 2587.2 ± 46.2 kJ/day, n = 111). Higher energy intake at 4 months predicted greater weight gain between birth to age 1, 2, or 3 years and larger body weight and BMI at ages 1 to 5 years. No significant associations were seen in breastfed infants (N = 299).

CONCLUSIONS. Among formula- or mixed-fed infants, dietary energy intake at age 4 months predicted postnatal weight gain and childhood obesity risk. Both prenatal and postnatal factors may influence infant energy intake and postnatal weight gain.
Psychological Responses to Terminal Illness and Eventual Death in Koreans With Cancer
Authors: Kang Kyung-Ah , Miller Jean R. , Lee Won-Hee
Published: March 2006

This qualitative study describes the psychological responses of Korean participants with terminal cancer (stages III–IV) from time of diagnosis to death. Eighteen participants, ages 48 to 73, were interviewed at various phases of dying. Using analytic induction, three categories (nonacceptance, resignation, submission), characteristic patterns of responses over the course of illness and typical responses within categories were generated. Nonaccepters denied the possibility of death while struggling to live; their typical response was resistance. Resigners displayed sorrow, thoughts about their destiny, and growing acceptance of their fate. Their typical response was nonresistance. Submitters were shocked initially, searched for God’s will, and prepared for death with hope. Their typical response was hopeful that God would care for them and their families. Participants’ ages, physical pain, burden to family, and beliefs played important roles in the patterns of responses.
Improper Intake of Medication by Elders—Insights on Contributing Factors: A Review of the Literature
Authors: van Vliet Marjolein J. , Schuurmans Marieke J. , Grypdonck Mieke H. F. , Duijnstee Mia S. H.
Published: March 2006

Elders represent 6.4% of the world’s populations, and 60% of them take medication. In one of six hospital admissions of elders, failures in medication intake are involved. Most of these admissions (88%) could be prevented if elders at risk can be identified (Beijer & Blaey, 2002). This review was conducted to identify and gain insight into which factors influence medication intake in elders. The factors are grouped into six categories: physiological factors, cognitive factors, polypharmacy and medication frequency, patient consent to the treatment and motivation for taking the medication, demographic variables, and family caregivers and social support. In order to identify elders at risk in an early stage, it is recommended that a risk-assessment instrument be developed.
Toward a Situation-Specific Theory of Breastfeeding
Authors: Nelson Antonia M.
Published: March 2006

This article reports a preliminary situation-specific theory of breastfeeding developed using an integrative, inductive approach (Im & Meleis, 1999). The theory purports varying levels of conflict versus congruity existing between the mother/infant dyad, a mother and her support networks, and both between and within the networks, all of which either block or facilitate breastfeeding. The theory proposes that to decrease conflict, professionals need to carefully consider their approach to promoting and supporting breastfeeding so as to respect the right of maternal decision-making and to avoid semblances of coercion or paternalism. “Salutary breastfeeding” is proposed as a new, ideal breastfeeding experience that is positive, healthy, and fulfilling, yet encompasses acknowledgement of diversity in maternal/infant dyads and situational context.
FIELD REPLICATION OF CLASSWIDE PEER TUTORING
Authors: Greenwood Charles R. , Dinwiddie Granger , Bailey Voris , Carta Judith J. , Dorsey Don , Kohler Frank W. , Nelson Chris , Rotholz David , Schulte Dan
Published: March 2006

We conducted a large‐scale field replication study of classwide peer tutoring applied to spelling instruction (Greenwood, Delquadri, & Hall, 1984). Two hundred and eleven inner‐city students in four schools participated during their first‐ and second‐grade school years. The effects of classwide peer tutoring were compared to teacher instructional procedures and pretest probes using a group replication design (Barlow, Hayes, & Nelson, 1984). Analysis of group and individual results indicated that (a) both teacher instructional procedures and classwide peer tutoring were effective in increasing spelling performance above pretest levels, (b) peer tutoring produced statistically greater gains relative to the teachers' procedures for both low and high student groups formed on pretest levels, (c) these outcomes were representative of groups, classes, individuals, and years during the project, and (d) participant satisfaction with the program was generally high. A separate analysis of the social importance of treatment outcome revealed differential findings for low and high groups related to pretest levels. Implications of these findings are discussed.
SAYING AND DOING: A COMMENTARY ON A CONTINGENCY‐SPACE ANALYSIS
Authors: Stokes Trevor F. , Osnes Pamela G. , Guevremont David C.
Published: March 2006

This article addresses the contingency‐space analysis (Matthews, Shimoff, & Catania, 1987) of the verbal regulation of behavior. From an applied perspective, the conceptualization of the relationship between saying and doing Matthews et al. present may be more complex than is necessary. The central issue in correspondence investigations is a simple one: does correspondence between what people say and what they do occur? The focus of this paper is on the applied and clinical importance of the relationship between verbalizations and relevant behavior and the implications for future research.
MULTIPLE TREATMENT INTERFERENCE IN THE ALTERNATING TREATMENTS DESIGN AS A FUNCTION OF THE INTERCOMPONENT INTERVAL LENGTH
Authors: McGonigle John J. , Rojahn Johannes , Dixon Joanne , Strain Phillip S.
Published: March 2006

In experimental designs requiring the administration of more than one treatment to the same subject(s), the effect of one treatment may be influenced by the effect of another treatment (Campbell & Stanley, 1963), a phenomenon known as multiple treatment interference. We conducted two studies in which multiple treatment interference in an alternating treatments design was shown to be a function of the length of the intercomponent interval (ICI) separating treatment conditions. In the first study, we evaluated the effects of four different treatments on the mouthing of a severely retarded boy. Under a 1‐min ICI no consistent differential responding to treatment was obtained. Differential responding emerged when the ICI was increased from 1 min to 120 min, thus suggesting multiple treatment interference in the lack of differential responding under a 1‐min changeover interval. Functional control of the nondifferential and differential responding as a function of the ICI length was replicated in a reversal phase. In the second study, we compared two treatment procedures for the disruptive noncompliant behavior of a moderately retarded boy. Multiple treatment interference (i.e., the lack of differential responding) occurred with the 1‐min intercomponent interval. An increase to a 120‐min ICI again resulted in differential responding. A replication of multiple treatment interference by a reversal to a short interval phase was not achieved in the second subject. Results of this study support much of the basic literature on discrimination and multiple treatment interference. Major findings of this study are twofold: Multiple treatment interference can depend on the length of the changeover interval between treatments and multiple treatment interference can take the form of a lack of differential responding to various treatments. Implications for future research are discussed.
EFFECTS OF PROBLEM‐BASED SCHEDULING ON PATIENT WAITING AND STAFF UTILIZATION OF TIME IN A PEDIATRIC CLINIC
Authors: Callahan Nancy M. , Redmon William K.
Published: March 2006

The patient scheduling system in a pediatric outpatient clinic was changed from time‐based to problem‐based in an A‐B‐A‐B reversal design. During baseline, time‐based scheduling was in effect with patients being scheduled in 15‐min periods regardless of presenting problem. During intervention, a receptionist matched client problems with time slots so that a more extensive treatment was allocated more time. Problem‐based scheduling resulted in a substantial decrease in mean number of minutes spent in clinic across all presenting problems. Waiting time increased to baseline levels when problem‐based scheduling was removed and decreased again on reintroduction of the program. A follow‐up check conducted 1 month after the end of the second intervention phase revealed that the effects were maintained. The problem‐based schedule also resulted in an increase in the proportion of extra time that medical staff had available and produced a positive consumer response.
THE LONG‐TERM EFFECTS OF A TOKEN ECONOMY ON SAFETY PERFORMANCE IN OPEN‐PIT MINING
Authors: Fox David K. , Hopkins B. L. , Anger W. Kent
Published: March 2006

A token economy that used trading stamps as tokens was instituted at two dangerous open‐pit mines. Employees earned stamps for working without lost‐time injuries, for being in work groups in which all other workers had no lost‐time injuries, for not being involved in equipment‐damaging accidents, for making adopted safety suggestions, and for unusual behavior which prevented an injury or accident. They lost stamp awards if they or other workers in their group were injured, caused equipment damage, or failed to report accidents or injuries. The stamps could be exchanged for a selection of thousands of items at redemption stores. Implementation of the token economy was followed by large reductions in the number of days lost from work because of injuries, the number of lost‐time injuries, and the costs of accidents and injuries. The reductions in costs far exceeded the costs of operating the token economy. All improvements were maintained over several years.
INDEPENDENT AND SOCIAL PLAY AMONG PROFOUNDLY MENTALLY RETARDED ADULTS: TRAINING, MAINTENANCE, GENERALIZATION, AND LONG‐TERM FOLLOW‐UP
Authors: Singh Nirbhay N. , Millichamp C. Jane
Published: March 2006

Play skills were taught to eight profoundly mentally retarded adults in two interrelated experiments. In Experiment 1, a multiple baseline across subjects design was used to assess the efficacy of verbal and physical prompts on independent play. In Experiment 2, the same subjects and experimental procedures were used to develop social play. Verbal prompting and graduated physical guidance procedures were found to be effective in substantially increasing independent play in Experiment 1 and social play in Experiment 2. Positive changes were also observed in collateral behaviors. Inappropriate play decreased slightly and stereotypy decreased to very low levels. Social interaction increased substantially in Experiment 2 when social play was targeted but little change was observed in Experiment 1 when only independent play was targeted. Treatment gains were maintained for 26 weeks in Experiment 1 and 10 weeks in Experiment 2. In addition, the treatment gains were generalized across subjects and settings in Experiment 2. Finally, regular follow‐up checks showed that independent and social play remained in the repertoire of the subjects for 12 months following the termination of programmed maintenance.
FURTHER GENERALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: ACCOUNTING FOR NATURAL COVARIATION IN GENERALIZATION ASSESSMENT
Authors: Pigott H. Edmund , Fantuzzo John W. , Gorsuch Richard L.
Published: March 2006

In recent years, the assessment of generalization effects has become a major priority of applied behavior analysis. In this paper we propose a set of procedures to increase the accuracy of generalization assessments by accounting for the degree of natural covariation between treated and untreated behaviors. Scatterplot analyses were used (a) to assess the amount of baseline and postbaseline covariation betweeen behaviors, (b) to determine if the observed generalization effect was due to a preexisting covariation between the behaviors, and (c) to assess if there is a significant change in the strength of the relationship between the behaviors as a function of the intervention. Six hypothetical sets of data are used to demonstrate how these procedures provide more accurate and detailed generalization assessment.
RESPONSE INTERRUPTION AND DRL FOR THE REDUCTION OF RAPID EATING
Authors: Lennox David B. , Miltenberger Raymond G. , Donnelly David R.
Published: March 2006

We assessed the efficacy of several procedures for reducing the rate of eating responses during mealtime by three institutionalized mentally retarded clients. A time‐based (15 s) response interruption procedure was implemented which resulted in little change in eating responses for 2 of 3 subjects. A spaced‐responding DRL 15‐s procedure resulted in decreases in eating responses to target levels only after a prompting procedure was added. Procedures were evaluated using a multiple baseline across subjects design with assessment of generalization to nontreated meals. A change in eating behavior during breakfast occurred only after direct training in the breakfast setting. Maintenance data were collected at 1‐ and 5‐month follow‐up periods.
UNPROGRAMMED EFFECTS OF TRAINING HIGH‐STATUS PEERS TO INTERACT WITH SEVERELY HANDICAPPED CHILDREN
Authors: Sasso Gary M. , Rude Harvey A.
Published: March 2006

We examined the effects of a peer initiation intervention with high‐ and low‐status nonhandicapped students on the behavior of untrained peers toward handicapped students. In the context of a counterbalanced withdrawal design, high‐ and low‐status nonhandicapped students were taught to direct social initiations to eight severely handicapped students during recess activities. The interactions of the high‐status students resulted in higher levels of initiations by untrained peers toward the handicapped students than did the interactions of the low‐status students. Social response levels were also differentially affected by the status of the peer initiator.
CORRESPONDENCE TRAINING: AN EXAMPLE OF RULE‐GOVERNED BEHAVIOR?
Authors: Deacon Joseph R. , Konarski Edward A.
Published: March 2006

Two groups of six mentally retarded adults were exposed to either a “say/do” correspondence training program or a “do only” reinforcement procedure to evaluate the suggestion of Rogers‐Warren and Baer (1976) that reinforcement of the nonverbal target behavior in the absence of the relevant verbal behavior may account for the behavior changes seen in correspondence training. The participants worked in an experimental setting on a variety of manipulatory responses leading to various auditory and visual consequences. Analysis of individual patterns of responding indicated no apparent differences between the groups during training; four individuals in each group appeared to develop generalized correspondence skills. We conclude that the outcome of correspondence training may not necessarily be verbal regulation of behavior as is assumed. Rather, we suggest that the notion of rule‐governed behavior can best account for the type of behavior changes seen in correspondence studies.
CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN DEFINITIONS AND PROCEDURES: A REPLY TO STOKES, OSNES, AND GUEVREMONT
Authors: Catania A. Charles , Shimoff Eliot , Matthews Byron A.
Published: March 2006

Stokes, Osnes, and Guevremont's (1987) implicit definition of correspondence classes appears dose to ours (Matthews, Shimoff, & Catania, 1987). Their definition, however, is fundamentally procedural and thus may have to be modified as experimental methodologies are refined. The advantage of our contingency‐space analysis is that it is independent of specific procedures and focuses attention on problems inherent in some procedural definitions. Specifically, a contingency‐space analysis addresses the issue of distinguishing specific instances from classes and reminds us that correspondence can be identified as a class only on the basis of observing a population of opportunities for say/do sequences in which the subject sometimes does not say.
EFFECTS OF STIMULUS CUEING ON THE ACQUISITION OF GROUNDSTROKES BY BEGINNING TENNIS PLAYERS
Authors: Ziegler Susan G.
Published: March 2006

A multiple baseline design was used to examine the effects of stimulus self‐cueing on the acquisition of forehand and backhand returns by beginning tennis players (N = 24). A four‐step verbal cueing program was introduced during intervention. Both the use of the technique and the successful number of returns were recorded. Each group showed an acceleration in skill acquisition during intervention, with both forehand and backhand returns improving over 45% from baseline conditions. Implications for the teaching of beginning tennis skills are discussed. DESCRIPTORS: physical activity, sports skills
PROVIDING INDEPENDENT RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES TO REDUCE STEREOTYPIC VOCALIZATIONS IN CHRONIC SCHIZOPHRENICS
Authors: Wong Stephen E. , Terranova Mark D. , Bowen Linda , Zarate Roberto , Massel H. Keith , Liberman Robert P.
Published: March 2006

We evaluated the effects of minimally supervised, independent recreational activities on stereotypic vocal behavior in two chronic schizophrenic patients. In baseline sessions, subjects were observed during unstructured free time in the psychiatric ward. In treatment sessions, therapists presented preferred recreational materials (magazines, models, and art projects), verbally prompted on‐task behavior every 20 min, and, in one condition, administered contingent tokens. Independent recreational activities reduced medium‐rate self‐talk in one subject and high‐rate mumbling in a second subject by 60%‐70%. Results were the same with or without contingent tokens. Apparent self‐maintaining characteristics of these vocal responses are discussed.
GROUP INSTRUCTION WITH PROFOUNDLY RETARDED PERSONS: ACQUISITION, GENERALIZATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF A REMUNERATIVE WORK SKILL
Authors: Schepis Maureen M. , Reid Dennis H. , Fitzgerald Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2006

We evaluated a group instruction program for teaching a vocational skill to profoundly retarded adults. The program involved designated trainer roles and both individual student‐directed and total group‐directed procedures. Results indicated that, following the program, participants acquired the skill of stamping addresses on envelopes, the skill generalized across an untrained type of envelope, and the skill maintained over time. The group activity was incorporated into the regular classroom without increased disruption and the participants earned a wage for their productivity. Implications for the development of a group instruction technology for severely handicapped persons are discussed.
INDUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF SWALLOWING RESPONSES IN INFANTS WITH DYSPHAGIA
Authors: Lamm Nyla , Greer R. Douglas
Published: March 2006

A treatment package was used to induce and maintain swallowing with three infants who did not swallow food or liquid. Prior to treatment, they received all nutrition and hydration via gastrostomy tube feedings. The treatment package consisted of least‐to‐most intrusive physical prompts, an eliciting stimulus, contingent social reinforcement, and repeated trials to induce and maintain swallowing. The design combined elements of reversal and changing criterion designs for all three infants. The package was applied across feeding devices (nipple, cup, spoon), situations (liquid, pureed foods), and persons (trainer, primary nurses, mothers). The number of swallows or ounces per feeding (from 0 to 8 ounces) and the number of feeding sessions per day (from one to five) were progressively increased. In each case, the infant received baseline conditions alternated with the treatment package. Follow‐up probes were done at 15 months, 21 months, or 24 months, respectively, after the last phase for the three patients. The package was successful in that the gastrostomy tube was no longer needed for Patients 1 and 3. Patient 2 maintained functional swallowing responses but received supplemental gastrostomy feedings because of unrelated medical problems. Results are discussed in terms of the need to isolate components of the package. The package can be used in cases in which the preexisting treatments (reinforcement with preferred foods, force‐feeding) are not feasible because of age, physical fragility, or the lack of a swallowing response following the presentation of food.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A CONSTANT TIME‐DELAY PROCEDURE TO TEACH CHAINED RESPONSES TO ADOLESCENTS WITH MENTAL RETARDATION
Authors: Schuster John W. , Gast David L. , Wolery Mark , Guiltinan Sharon
Published: March 2006

The effectiveness of a 5‐s constant time‐delay procedure to teach three chained food preparation behaviors to four moderately retarded adolescent students was evaluated within a multiple probe design across behaviors. Results indicate that the procedure was effective in teaching all four students to make a sandwich, boil a boil‐in‐bag item, and bake canned biscuits. The skills maintained with at least 85% accuracy over a 3‐month period. Training generalized from the school to the home setting for the 2 subjects that completed generalization probe sessions. The percentage of errors across all skills and students was less than 9%.
PROMOTING AUTISTIC CHILDREN'S PEER INTERACTION IN AN INTEGRATED EARLY CHILDHOOD SETTING USING AFFECTION ACTIVITIES
Authors: McEvoy Mary A. , Nordquist Vey M. , Twardosz Sandra , Heckaman Kelly A. , Wehby Joseph H. , Denny R. Kenton
Published: March 2006

Group affection activities were used to increase the interaction of three autistic children with their nonhandicapped peers in an integrated early childhood setting. Peer interaction increased during free play when the affection activities were conducted, but not when similar activities without the affection component were used. This interaction included initiations by both the autistic and nonhandicapped children, with reciprocal interactions occurring more frequently with nonhandicapped peers who had participated in the affection activities.
UNITS OF ANALYSIS IN TASK‐ANALYTIC RESEARCH
Authors: Haring Thomas G. , Kennedy Craig H.
Published: March 2006

We develop and discuss four criteria for evaluating the appropriateness of units of analysis for task‐analytic research and suggest potential alternatives to the units of analysis currently used. Of the six solutions discussed, the most commonly used unit of analysis in current behavior analytic work, percentage correct, meets only one of the four criteria. Five alternative units of analysis are presented and evaluated: (a) percentage of opportunities to perform meeting criterion, (b) trials to criteria, (c) cumulative competent performances, (d) percentage correct with competent performance coded, and (e) percentage correct with competent performance coded and a grid showing performance on individual steps of the task analysis. Of the solutions evaluated, only one—percentage correct with competent performance coded and a task analysis grid—met all four criteria.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS TRAINING FOR PARENTS: EXPERIMENTAL AND SOCIAL VALIDATION
Authors: Kohr Melinda A. , Parrish John M. , Neef Nancy A. , Driessen Joan R. , Hallinan Patricia C.
Published: March 2006

Coordination of professional services on behalf of children often hinges on the involvement of informed parents. The purposes of this study were to identify and experimentally and socially validate skills required of parents for effective communication with professionals. Target skills were identified on the basis of judges' social validation ratings of (a) sample interactions between parents and professionals and (b) the behaviors comprising a resultant task analysis. Eight parents were then trained in these skills via an instructional package. Results of a multiple baseline design across subjects and grouped skill domains showed that each parent acquired the targeted skills during simulated conferences and that correct responding usually generalized to actual conferences. Independent judges validated training outcomes, and participating parents indicated satisfaction with the curriculum.
BEHAVIORAL VISION TRAINING FOR MYOPIA: STIMULUS SPECIFICITY OF TRAINING EFFECTS
Authors: Leung Jin‐Pang
Published: March 2006

The present study assessed transfer of visual training effects for myopia using two different training stimuli and a single subject A‐B‐C‐A design. A male student volunteer, with lens prescription of −3.0 D (left) and −2.0 D (right), served as the subject. During baseline (10 sessions), visual acuity was assessed by two behavioral acuity tests. One test consisted of 50 line drawings of common objects as testing stimuli and the other test had 50 Chinese characters. A procedure including stimulus fading and reinforcement (positive verbal feedback) was used to train the subject to identify either pictorial stimuli or Chinese characters presented from a distance. Training was effective in improving performance on both behavioral acuity tests during the training phases and follow‐up but the change was more pronounced on the specific stimuli being used for training. Refractive errors assessed on a weekly basis showed no change in the physiology of both eyes. These results suggest that effects of visual training only partially transferred to untrained stimuli.
THE EFFECTS OF NIGHTTIME SEAT BELT ENFORCEMENT ON SEAT BELT USE BY TAVERN PATRONS: A PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS
Authors: Malenfant J. E. Louis , Van Houten Ron
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of police enforcement and the use of signs and posters in promoting seat belt use by nighttime tavern patrons. Ten taverns in two cities served as sites. Data were collected on the nighttime seat belt use of tavern patrons and daytime citywide seat belt use. Results indicated that the intervention increased nighttime seat belt use by tavern patrons. Daytime seat belt use increased in one city and remained at a high level in the other following the intervention. Because previous research has shown that tavern patrons are overrepresented in the impaired driving population, and that seat belt use decreases the likelihood of serious injury or death, results of this study suggest that enforcement of seat belt use could reduce casualties resulting from impaired driving.
IDENTIFYING REINFORCERS FOR PERSONS WITH PROFOUND HANDICAPS: STAFF OPINION VERSUS SYSTEMATIC ASSESSMENT OF PREFERENCES
Authors: Green Carolyn W. , Reid Dennis H. , White Linda K. , Halford Richard C. , Brittain Doris P. , Gardner Shirley M.
Published: March 2006

We evaluated a systematic means of determining stimulus preferences among seven profoundly handicapped persons. Preferences were determined by observing student approach responses to individual stimuli. Results indicated that there were differential stimulus preferences across the multiply handicapped participants. However, results of the systematic assessment did not coincide with the results of a more traditional, caregiver‐opinion method of assessing student preferences. A second experiment was then conducted with five participants to evaluate whether stimuli that were assessed to consistently represent preferences would function as reinforcers in skill training programs. Results indicated that stimuli that were systematically assessed to represent student preferences typically functioned as reinforcers when applied contingently. However, preferred stimuli as reflected by caregiver opinion did not function as reinforcers unless those stimuli were also preferred on the systematic assessment. Results are discussed in terms of assisting profoundly handicapped persons by (a) improving the effectiveness of training programs by increasing the likelihood of using stimuli that have reinforcing value and (b) increasing the overall quality of life by providing preferred stimuli in the routine living environment.
TRAINING STUDENTS WITH PROFOUND OR MULTIPLE HANDICAPS TO MAKE REQUESTS VIA MICROSWITCHES
Authors: Wacker David P. , Wiggins Barbara , Fowler Mary , Berg Wendy K.
Published: March 2006

In a series of three experiments, we evaluated the use of microswitches as a means for students with profound, multiple handicaps to demonstrate preferences between toys and to make requests for specific activities. In Experiment 1, 5 students learned to demonstrate toy preferences by using microswitches to activate battery‐operated toys. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the students' preferences for social attention. Microswitches were used to activate prerecorded messages that signaled the classroom teacher to attend to the students. In Experiment 3, the students used the switches and prerecorded messages to make specific requests of educational staff in school and community settings. Results of these experiments, evaluated within multiple baseline, alternating treatments, and simultaneous treatments designs, indicated that these students could request specific activities. Results are discussed with respect to the continued use of microswitches and to program development.
AN EVALUATION OF LABELING‐THEN‐DOING WITH MODERATELY HANDICAPPED PERSONS: ACQUISITION AND GENERALIZATION WITH COMPLEX TASKS
Authors: Wacker David P. , Berg Wendy K. , McMahon Colleen , Templeman Mark , McKinney Jeff , Swarts Valerie , Visser Melissa , Marquardt Pam
Published: March 2006

We conducted two experiments in which moderately mentally retarded persons were trained first to label and then to enter characters into a computer, calculator, or checkbook (label‐then‐do) within a multiple baseline design. In Experiment 1, 5 young adults were trained to enter statistical programs into computers in an office setting. Following training, all subjects' use of verbal labels and key‐entry skills generalized across tasks (programs) and settings (offices and computer terminals). In Experiment 2, 3 junior high school students were trained with self‐labeling procedures to complete a key‐entry task and to balance a checkbook. The performance of all students generalized across tasks and settings, and the use of labels generalized for 2 of the students. Results are discussed relative to mediated generalization and to establishing verbal control over behavior.
THEFT REDUCTION IN A GROCERY STORE THROUGH PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND GRAPHING OF LOSSES FOR EMPLOYEES
Authors: Carter Ned , Holmström Anne , Simpanen Monica , Melin Lennart
Published: March 2006

Shoplifting and employee theft constitute a major problem for retailers. Previous research has described techniques for effectively reducing either type of theft but has not addressed the problem of thefts of unspecified origin. In a grocery store we evaluated the effect of identifying for employees frequently stolen products from three groups of items and graphing, twice weekly in the lunchroom, losses for the separate groups. After the products were identified and losses graphed, thefts from the three groups dropped from eight per day to two per day.
THE EFFECTS OF SELF‐MONITORING AND SUPERVISOR FEEDBACK ON STAFF PERFORMANCE IN A RESIDENTIAL SETTING
Authors: Richman Gina S. , Riordan Mary R. , Reiss Maxin L. , Pyles David A. M. , Bailey Jon S.
Published: March 2006

We evaluated the effects of a self‐monitoring procedure to increase staff on‐task behavior and adherence to scheduled activities. Self‐monitoring involved the use of activity cards that staff members completed and carried with them to assist in determining the activities for which they were responsible at any given time. Increases in both on‐schedule and on‐task behavior resulted. Supervisor feedback was subsequently added because some staff members did not maintain consistently high levels of performance. Generalization data indicated that staff members implemented the procedure during evening hours without specific programming. The advantages and limitations of using a self‐monitoring procedure for improving performance of staff members in residential settings are discussed.
REPLACING MALADAPTIVE SPEECH WITH VERBAL LABELING RESPONSES: AN ANALYSIS OF GENERALIZED RESPONDING
Authors: Foxx R. M. , Faw Gerald D. , McMorrow Martin J. , Kyle Martha S. , Bittle Ron G.
Published: March 2006

We taught three mentally handicapped students to answer questions with verbal labels and evaluated the generalized effects of this training on their maladaptive speech (e.g., echolalia) and correct responding to untrained questions. The students received cues‐pause‐point training on an initial question set followed by generalization assessments on a different set in another setting. Probes were conducted on novel questions in three other settings to determine the strength and spread of the generalization effect. A multiple baseline across subjects design revealed that maladaptive speech was replaced with correct labels (answers) to questions in the training and all generalization settings. These results replicate and extend previous research that suggested that cues‐pause‐point procedures may be useful in replacing maladaptive speech patterns by teaching students to use their verbal labeling repertoires.