Component analysis and stimulus control assessment of a behavior deceleration treatment package.

A treatment package that included two setting condition manipulations and visual occlusion was implemented to gain control over the high-intensity screaming and whining of a 16-year-old female with developmental disabilities. The study included an analysis of the individual and combined components of the treatment package and a stimulus control analysis of three salient features of the visual occlusion apparatus (i.e., opaque screen, secured helmet, and cranial pressure). Results showed that the treatment package occasioned a deceleration in the two targeted vocal behaviors and a reduction in the amount of time the participant was required to wear the occlusion apparatus. An analysis of the apparatus suggested that the critical element needed to control inappropriate vocalizations appeared to be cranial pressure, which was naturally produced by the helmet. Consequently, the helmet was eliminated and cranial pressure was produced by a woman's headband. Follow-up data, collected 1, 2, and 3 months after termination of systematic intervention, revealed near-zero levels of screaming and whining behaviors. A 9-month follow-up investigation involving the removal and subsequent reinstatement of the headband procedure supported the use of the headband for the maintenance of behavioral gains.