Translational evaluation of a lag schedule and variability in food consumed by a boy with autism and food selectivity.
Dev Neurorehabil 2017;
20:309-312. [PMID:
27019276 DOI:
10.3109/17518423.2016.1146364]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To evaluate the effects of a lag schedule of positive reinforcement on variability in food consumed by a boy with autism and food selectivity.
METHODS
Using single-subject experimental design methodology, an ABAB design was employed. During lag 0 (condition A), high-preferred toys were delivered contingent on consumption of any food. During lag 1 (condition B), high-preferred toys were delivered contingent on consumption of different foods within session.
RESULTS
Higher levels of variability in within-session consumption were observed during lag 1 conditions.
CONCLUSIONS
The lag 1 schedule of reinforcement increased variability in food consumed. This finding adds to the literature by demonstrating a novel experimental arrangement that may be used in applied studies to evaluate the clinical utility of differentially reinforcing variability in the treatment of food selectivity associated with autism.
Collapse