Study of Behavioral Treatments to Reduce Problem Behavior and Aggression in Children Ages 3 to 17

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying children aged 3 to 17 with problem behavior such as aggression and self-injury that happens frequently and is maintained by social positive reinforcement. The study aims to evaluate whether alternating sessions where the child can have their way with sessions where they cannot helps reduce the return of problem behavior, a phenomenon called resurgence. This research compares a new behavioral approach called Contingency-Discrimination Training CDT with a traditional treatment method. Participants undergo a detailed assessment including a functional analysis to understand what maintains their problem behavior and preference assessments to tailor treatment. They then learn an alternative communication response during a Differential Reinforcement of Alternative behavior DRA phase. In the CDT group, sessions alternate between reinforcing the alternative response and not reinforcing it, while the control group receives consistent reinforcement for the alternative response. After 31 sessions, reinforcement is stopped to test whether problem behavior resurges. Throughout the study, researchers observe and record problem behavior and treatment adherence using video and data software. They measure how often problem behavior occurs during the resurgence test, how many sessions it takes to reach treatment goals, and how many participants experience resurgence. The study involves regular sessions over several months and tracks safety and treatment integrity closely to ensure accurate results and participant well-being.

Extensions of Resurgence as Choice