Title
Quantitative assessments of sensitivity to reinforcement contingencies in mental retardation
UMMS Affiliation
Shriver Center
Date
2-21-2002
Document Type
Article
Medical Subject Headings
Adolescent; Adult; Female; Humans; Male; Mental Retardation; *Reinforcement (Psychology); Sensitivity and Specificity; Software
Disciplines
Mental and Social Health | Neuroscience and Neurobiology | Psychiatry and Psychology
Abstract
Sensitivity to differences in reinforcement contingencies was examined in 6 individuals with mental retardation. A concurrent operants procedure was implemented in the context of a computer game. Participants selected two different types of animated figures displayed concurrently in the left and right portions of a touchscreen monitor. Over a series of conditions, the relative rates or magnitudes of reinforcers following selections of the two options were changed in ratios of 5:1, 3:1, 1:1, 1:3, and 1:5. Sensitivity was quantified by application of the generalized matching equation. Results included individual differences in sensitivity and differential sensitivity to rate and magnitude variation. The results suggest that comprehensive assessments of potential reinforcers may benefit from including tests of delivery parameters.
Rights and Permissions
Citation: Am J Ment Retard. 2002 Mar;107(2):136-45. Link to article on publisher's website
