Effects of Differential Scheduling of Timeout to Reduce Maladaptive Responding

Abstract

One popular mode of treatment for the reduction of maladaptive responding has been the use of timeout procedures. Historically, these procedures have generally been administered on a continuous schedule. In this study, the effects of using a differential schedule of timeout and allowing one maladaptive response per interval before timeout procedures were implemented were studied. The subjects were three school-aged children who had been identified as mentally retarded. The study used a multiple-baseline design, and demonstrated that a differential schedule of timeout was effective in reducing the target maladaptive behaviors. In addition, by permitting one behavior to occur within an interval which occasioned only a warning, the students were allowed to develop self-control within a structured setting. Suggestions for teacher implementation are provided.