The application of generalized correct social contingencies: an evaluation of a training program

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Developmental Disabilities
• Special Education

Background:

• Institutional settings often require specialized training for staff working with individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Effective behavioral management strategies are crucial for improving social contingencies and child behavior.
• Previous research highlights the need for durable training methods in applied settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To train two aides in applying generalized social contingencies to child behaviors.
• To assess the impact of observer feedback training on aide behavior.
• To determine the durability of training effects over time.

Main Methods:

• A multiple baseline design was employed to evaluate the training procedure.
• Observer feedback was used to train aides on specific child behaviors.
• A post-training follow-up assessed the long-term effects of the intervention.

Main Results:

• Training significantly increased the proportion of appropriate child behaviors attended to by both aides.
• The positive effects of the training were maintained during the follow-up period.
• The intervention demonstrated effectiveness in generalizing and maintaining behavioral changes.

Conclusions:

• Observer feedback is an effective method for training aides in managing behaviors of institutionalized individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• The training procedure led to durable improvements in aide attending behavior.
• This study supports the use of behavioral interventions to enhance care in institutional settings.