Behavior can be modified because it is governed by its consequences. Observable behavior, excluding its causes, is modified by the application of techniques derived from B.F. Skinner's operant learning theory. Optimum effects can be achieved only after thorough knowledge of the child is gained, particularly in the area of his capabilities. The…

Thirty five volunteer college women were divided into three groups to determine if heart rate could be conditioned instrumentally and lowered during exercise stress on the treadmill. The three groups were a) experimental group I, 15 subjects who received instrumental conditioning with visual feedback; b) instrumental group II, 9 subjects who…

The purpose of the present study was to investigate more directly the effects of content and repetition of contingent visual feedback on a discrete operant pulling response and accompanying visual attention in 24 six- to seven-month old infants. Simultaneous recording was made of infant operant behavior and visual attention. Results indicated…

One in a series of over 50 similar listings relating to handicapped and gifted children, the bibliography contains 81 references selected from Exceptional Child Education Abstracts concerning behavior modification. The following information is provided for each entry (which includes research reports, conference papers, journal articles, texts, and…

Instructional academic material from regular class course offerings was used with 125 high school special education students. (Author/CL)

The article proposes a tripartite sequence of "I, IT, YOU" statements for helping students at work. The three-step guide to action presupposes the value of encouragement. (NQ)

Hypothesis refining is the combining of two separate rules (conjunctive concept), the combination of which is more accurate than either rule alone. Each of 70 subjects was reinforced independently for either rule alone or their combination under one and only one of seven reinforcement conditions. Tests Verplanck's paradigm, a model for studying…

Rhesus monkeys were reared in total isolation, in partial isolation, or under normal conditions with access to mothers and peers. Each group was compared on the rate of acquisition of a simple operant response. (GO)

A professional involved in behavior modification with handicapped children cites some of his experiences to point out the dangers of misuse of the system. (Author/CL)

Described is a program in which adolescent institutionalized handicapped girls are rewarded with money for improved academic performance, behavior, and participation. (CL)

Describes the implementation of a token economy as a method of controlling student behavior in an elementary school. Emphasizes student participation and discusses board issues such as teacher resistance to the program and the question of evaluation. (IRT)

A series of three experiments was conducted with three severely retarded children to investigate the vocalization-producing potential of two antecedent conditions: adult talk (commonly cited antecedent) and adult silence. (Author/CL)

Results indicated no significant differences between conditioning procedures in regard to obtained MRLs (minimum response levels) number of stimulus presentations required to establish MRL (discounting conditioning trials), and number of false-positive responses observed during control trial for 60 premature infants at one or two years of age.…

Presented is research evidence in support of the use of behavior extinction procedures for mentally handicapped persons in residential treatment situations. (IM)