Pairing is a commonly recommended practice used to build rapport and create positive therapeutic environments. However, there are limited evaluations of training procedures to teach pairing skills to direct-care staff. The purpose of the present study was to formalize and improve the efficiency of the training process for the initial stages of…

Ten staff members of residential facilities for individuals with mental retardation were trained in self-monitoring procedures, to increase staff on-task behavior and adherence to scheduled activities. Increases in both on-schedule and on-task behavior resulted, and generalization to evening hours occurred. Supervisor feedback was subsequently…

A pyramidal training procedure was implemented with staff working with two adults who had developmental disabilities and self-injurious behavior, aggression, and disruption. Little change occurred following inservice training, but improvements in direct care and staff behaviors and decreases in clients' inappropriate behaviors followed a…