Teaching Multiple Response Alternatives to Mitigate Resurgence

Author

Travis Carrasquillo, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

8-1-2014

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Rehabilitation

First Advisor

Ringdahl, Joel

Abstract

The current study tested the potential of teaching multiple response alternatives to mitigate resurgence of a target response. Two experimental arrangements were alternated. In one component a target response was reinforced, then an alternative response was reinforced while the target response was placed on extinction. In the final phase, both responses were placed on extinction. In the second component, a target response was reinforced, then four alternative responses were reinforced while the target response was placed on extinction. In the final phase, all responses were placed on extinction. Six of nine participants demonstrated lower resurgence of the target response following reinforcement of multiple response alternatives. The results of this study suggest teaching multiple response alternatives is a possible treatment strategy to mitigate response resurgence.