Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #134

Abstract Throughout clinical sessions, Colton exhibited variable-to-high rates of SIB, aggression, and ATO. Colton’s SIB has changed topographies from primarily wrist biting to include hand biting, leg biting, head hitting with an open palm, and hitting his head on walls. Additionally, Colton’s ATO can be observed by Colton hitting tables, walls, and throwing objects including toys, chairs, and tables. Colton’s ATO in the form of throwing items has become a safety concern for clinicians as well as himself. Additionally, clinicians and caregivers are concerned with the topography of Colton hitting his head on walls and hitting his head with his hand regarding his 4common antecedent for Colton’s SIB is his current behavior intervention plan. Colton’s current behavior intervention plan was mastered in April 2023, but the magnitude of behavior episodes has increased recently with fewer precursors appearing immediately prior to the behaviors occurring. Although behavior episodes occur usually only once or twice during a four-hour session, the magnitude of these behaviors has increased to result in broken skin, bruising of the wrists (biting) and sides (pinching), and broken tables and furniture. These behaviors more importantly are a concern for Colton’s safety but also interfere with his continued skill acquisition.
This behavior intervention plan utilizes antecedent interventions such as a visual schedule and differential reinforcement of other behaviors (DRO) (Roberts, Mace, & Daggett, 1995; Smith et al., 1995).