Behavioral Treatment of Self-Stimulation in the Developmentally Disabled

Abstract

Thirty-eight studies on the behavioral treatment of self-stimulation in the developmentally disabled were reviewed and evaluated across 17 methodological variables. Factors including the techniques employed, measurement of collateral behaviors, and generalization of treatment gains were examined for each study, and a summary of clinical knowledge to data is presented. Results indicated that while behavioral treatment of stereotypy appears to be an effective treatment modality, methodological shortcomings in the majority of studies prevents definitive conclusions. Guides for improving research in this area are provided.