Visual screening as a reductive procedure: An examination of generalization and duration

✍ Scribed by Brian Clauser; Kevin Gould

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 1988
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 475 KB
• Volume: 3
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 1072-0847
• DOI: 10.1002/bin.2360030105

✦ Synopsis

Visual screening procedures have been shown to be effective in reducing a variety of topographically dissimilar responses displayed by developmentally disabled subjects. The procedure requires that a blindfold or bib be placed over the subjects eyes contingent on a target response. The screening procedure continues for a specified duration, usually under three minutes. Because target responses may occur during screening, the release from screening becomes contingent on the subject remaining target response free for the specified period. The present study replicates previous reports by showing the effectiveness of this procedure in reducing self-injury displayed by an adult developmentally disabled women. It extends the available data by presenting information on the actual duration of screening required before the contingent release criterion was met. It also outlines a specific approach for generalization. Results show that the procedure was highly effective in reducing self-injury. Successful generalization was accomplished across additional times, settings, and staff. Data on the duration of screening show a clear downward trend across applications.

Visual screening procedures have been shown to be effective in reducing a variety of topographically dissimilar responses displayed by developmentally disabled subjects. The technique consists of placing a bib, blindfold, the therapists hands, or other material over the subjects eyes in a manner which restricts vision.