Evaluation of absolute and relative reinforcer value using progressive-ratio schedules

J Appl Behav Anal. 2008 Summer;41(2):189-202. doi: 10.1901/jaba.2008.41-189.

Abstract

We evaluated behavior exhibited by individuals with developmental disabilities using progressive-ratio (PR) schedules. High- and low-preference stimuli were determined based on the results of a paired-stimulus preference assessment and were evaluated in subsequent reinforcer and PR assessments using concurrent and single schedules of presentation. In Experiment 1, results showed that for 2 of 3 participants, stimuli determined to be low-preference functioned as reinforcers when evaluated independent of high-preference stimuli. Further, the results from Experiment 2 showed that low-preference stimuli also functioned as reinforcers under gradually increasing PR requirements. Results suggest that for cases in which a high-preference stimulus is unavailable or impractical, the contingent delivery of relatively less preferred stimuli may maintain appropriate behavior, even as schedule requirements increase.

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / psychology
  • Autistic Disorder / therapy*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Choice Behavior*
  • Decision Making
  • Developmental Disabilities / psychology
  • Developmental Disabilities / therapy*
  • Down Syndrome / psychology
  • Down Syndrome / therapy*
  • Early Intervention, Educational
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motivation*
  • Reinforcement Schedule*
  • Token Economy
  • Treatment Outcome