Semester of Graduation
May 2025
Degree
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Department of Psychology
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Recent research has demonstrated the utility of recording (Fahmie et al., 2020) and reinforcing (Deshais et al., 2024) appropriate as well as challenging behavior during a functional analysis. Two bias and sensitivity evaluations (BASE) were compared, one that equated the contingencies for appropriate and problem behavior and another that favored problem behavior as in more traditional functional analyses. Six neurotypical children were recruited and behavior was recorded on a neutral to severe behavior scale. We evaluated sensitivity and bias for each participant in an individual and summary analysis. Results showed that participants displayed a bias towards challenging behavior across BASE types, with the Equal BASE revealing more instances of sensitivity to reinforcement and the Suboptimal BASE capturing more instances of severe challenging behavior. Findings suggest that the Equal BASE may help identify risk factors for challenging behavior and inform preventive strategies.
Date
2-11-2025
Recommended Citation
Allen, Alva E., "Comparing Methods of Evaluating Sensitivity to Common Reinforcement Contingencies and Bias Toward Appropriate Versus Challenging Behavior" (2025). LSU Master's Theses. 6093.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/6093
Committee Chair
Morris, Samuel L.