A modified functional analysis was used to assess the behavioral function of a profoundly retarded man's self-injurious behavior (SIB). Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior effectively reduced SIB and related behavior problems, while compliance of a self-care acquisition task increased markedly. (Author/DB)

The severe self-injurious behavior of a woman with profound mental retardation was treated with 3.5 milliamps of shock combined with reinforcement and extinction techniques, with minimal results. Treatment with the Hot Shot Power Mite, which delivers 18.5 milliamps, combined with reinforcement for compliance and extinction of self-injurious escape…

Obtained 4-year follow-up data regarding marital status and marital accord for 59 couples receiving either behavioral (BMT) or insight-oriented (IOMT) marital therapy in a controlled outcome study. Found no significant group differences between the two treatment conditions at termination or six-month followup; but by four-year followup, a…

Two experiments to replicate P. E. Touchette's findings on the delayed prompt effect, with 34 subjects having mental retardation, found more variable results, with all five of the possible outcomes occurring with some subjects. The paper concludes that successful use of the delayed prompt technique depends on such factors as difficulty of target…

Describes cognitive-behavioral approach for analyzing characteristics related to student's unique experience of depression. Presents model for selecting intervention strategies that address the identified cognitive-behavioral areas of concern. Includes case example of sixth-grade boy with major depressive disorder to illustrate how decision-making…

Explains how a three-step peer-group counseling intervention can result in clear and healthy changes in the behavior of elementary age children who have significant interpersonal problems. Through eight weekly sessions students learn to take personal responsibility, identify problems, set goals, self-monitor, and self-evaluate. (MKA)

A study of 4-year-old girl with severe intellectual disabilities, congenital heart defects, and pulmonary disease investigated the effectiveness of restraint and no-restraint methods to prevent pica. Both methods prevented pica, however, the no restraint condition required less therapist effort and had less negative impact on quality of life.…

Describes the Fred S. Keller School, one of several schools operating as a Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling Program. The school functions as a cybernetic system of education in which the individualized instruction of each student influences the behavior of the entire education community. (CR)

Discusses the efficacy of a psychoeducational support group to help working mothers manage their roles. The goals of this pilot project were to assist working mothers in working toward achieving cognitive restructuring, behavioral changes to reduce stress, and a sense of social support from experiential sharing within the group process.…

Highlights an approach that guides adolescents who have committed sexual offenses to learn healthy/prosocial ways to meet their sexual needs. Article is divided into an overview of literature, review of the sex education component of an intervention program for these adolescents, and discussion of practical considerations for professionals.…

Examines a two-week summer program using problem-based learning and behavior therapy to help adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes improve their ability to cope with obstacles to dietary management. Improvements were observed in self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, and self-reported coping strategies. No significant changes were observed…

Reviews two general classes of strategies designed to reduce premature attrition and enhance treatment. Research on psychotherapy preparatory techniques indicates that these educational techniques are effective in reducing early-treatment attrition and may be especially effective with populations at high risk for dropout. (Author/GCP)

Retrospective chart reviews of seven adolescents and young adults (ages 9-20) with autistic disorder treated with fluoxetine alone or in combination with other medications were performed. Side effects included initial appetite suppression, vivid dreams, and hyperactivity. Improvement was seen in irritability, lethargy, sterotypy, and inappropriate…

This article reviews research supporting the impact of differentiated instruction on both the social and academic performance of students. It proposes that the school curriculum, the general curriculum, and the individualized curriculum constitute the most critical social context for the behavior of students with emotional and behavior disorders.…

Evaluates claims of the Early Intervention Project, an intensive behavioral intervention program for young children with autism. Claims include recovery from autism in 47% of cases and substantial improvement in an additional 42%. The article finds methodological problems affecting internal and external validity of the project's reported results.…