Evaluation of absolute and relative reinforcer value using progressive ratio schedules
We evaluated behavior exhibited by individuals with developmental disabilities using progressive ratio schedules. High- and low-preferred stimuli were determined based on the results of a paired-stimulus preference assessment and were evaluated in subsequent reinforcer and progressive ratio assessme...
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| Format: | Others |
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Scholarly Commons
2007
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| Online Access: | https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/672 https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1671&context=uop_etds |
| Summary: | We evaluated behavior exhibited by individuals with developmental disabilities using progressive ratio schedules. High- and low-preferred stimuli were determined based on the results of a paired-stimulus preference assessment and were evaluated in subsequent reinforcer and progressive ratio assessments using concurrent- and single-operant schedules of presentation in a modified reversal design. Results showed that for two participants, stimuli determined to be low-preferred via a preference assessment functioned as reinforcers when evaluated independently of high-preferred stimuli and under gradually increasing response requirements. The results suggest that for cases in which a high-preferred stimulus is unavailable or unfeasible, the contingent delivery of relatively less-preferred stimuli may maintain appropriate behavior, even as response effort is increased. In addition, results of the progressive ratio evaluation are suggestive of stimulus value. |
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