Examined are two alternatives to the use of electric shock to control destructive or repugnant behaviors in severely retarded or schizophrenic children: continued use of noncorporal punishment, and widescale application of appropriately arranged contingencies of positive reinforcement. (KW)

The self-injurious avoidance responses of a 22-year-old severely mentally retarded male were eliminated through a forced running consequence. Side effects, such as reduced noise, increase in smiling, and faster progress toward instructional objectives, were also noted. The results were maintained over a period of two years. (Author/PHR)