Behavior Reduction
RBT Task List 3.0 (Section D). Understanding functions of behavior, intervention strategies, and crisis management.
Functions of Behavior
Every behavior happens for a reason. Identifying the function (the "Why") is essential for choosing the right intervention. Remember the acronym SEAT.
Behavior feels good or relieves pain (e.g., hand flapping, scratching an itch).
To get away from a demand or situation (e.g., ripping up homework).
To get reaction or focus from others (e.g., yelling "look at me!").
To get access to an item or activity (e.g., crying for a cookie).
Antecedent Interventions
Strategies implemented before a behavior occurs to prevent it. These modify the environment or motivation (MO) so the problem behavior is less likely to happen.
- Visual Schedules: Preparing the client for transitions.
- Functional Communication Training (FCT): Teaching a client to ask for what they want instead of engaging in behavior.
- Non-Contingent Reinforcement (NCR): Giving free access to reinforcers on a schedule (reduces deprivation).
Differential Reinforcement
Reinforcing a desired behavior while withholding reinforcement for an undesired behavior (Extinction). This is a "Gold Standard" treatment.
Reinforcing a specific alternative behavior (e.g., raising hand instead of shouting).
Reinforcing the absence of the problem behavior for a set time (e.g., 5 mins without hitting = reward).
Reinforcing a behavior that cannot be done at the same time (e.g., hands in pocket vs. hitting).
Extinction
Discontinuing reinforcement for a previously reinforced behavior. The goal is to decrease the behavior to zero.
- Attention Extinction: Planning to ignore a behavior maintained by attention.
- Escape Extinction: Following through with a demand even if behavior occurs.
- Extinction Burst: A temporary increase in behavior intensity immediately after extinction starts. (It gets worse before it gets better).
Punishment Procedures
Punishment is any consequence that follows a behavior and decreases its future frequency. It should generally be used as a last resort.
Adding something aversive to decrease behavior (e.g., adding extra chores).
Removing something desired to decrease behavior (e.g., taking away iPad, Time-Out).
Side Effects of Extinction & Punishment
RBTs must be aware of the risks when reducing behavior. These procedures can cause emotional responding.
Extinction Burst (temporary spike) and Spontaneous Recovery (random return of behavior later).
Emotional aggression, avoidance of the person delivering punishment, and modeling of aggression.
Crisis & Emergency Procedures
If a behavior poses immediate danger to the client or others, emergency procedures must be used. Safety is the priority.
- Prevention: Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, hair ties) and clear the environment of dangerous objects.
- De-escalation: Minimize demands, maintain neutral body language, and give space.
- Restraint: Only used as a last resort if specifically trained and authorized (e.g., PCM, CPI).