The Application of Behavior Modification Techniques to Two Geriatric Patients

Author

Beth A. Schneider, University of Texas Permian Basin

Date of Award

12-1977

Document Type

Research Project Report

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Behavioral Science

Abstract

Behavior modification techniques were applied to the behavioral problems of two geriatric nursing home residents. For the first subject, providing reinforcement for a competing activity effectively reduced both disruptive behavior defined as requests for cigarettes, attacking a fellow resident or unauthorized removal of charts, and time spent in the hallway. Similarly, for the second subject, offering reinforcement for out-of-bed behavior had the desired effect of increasing time spent out of bed. However, positive changes in behavior failed to generalize beyond the experimental situation, possibly due to an inability to exercise adequate control over the environment. Suggestions for establishing a totally structured environment that would be ideal for optimal behavioral change were made.

Comments

BF637.B4.S36 1977

Recommended Citation

Schneider, Beth A., "The Application of Behavior Modification Techniques to Two Geriatric Patients" (1977). Graduate Theses. 77.
https://falconcommons.utpb.edu/utpb-cas/77