Target Behavior Case Study

Consequences to Target Behavior:

Paula’s parents are extremely fluent in identifying antecedents to emotional outbursts and avoid situations Paula may find upsetting. This may include giving Paula full environmental control over their home and allowing her to decide what the family will watch on the television or where they will go for dinner. When emotional outbursts occur, Paula’s parents will refrain from engaging in power struggles or disagreements and will attempt to meet Paula’s current need as a way to end the episode. As an example may decide does not like her mean, refuse to eat, select a substitute meal, and become upset if her parents no not comply. Parents initially deny her request or compromise on an alternate restaurant, however as escalation is …show more content…
When safe personal space is given and in the absence of property destruction and risk to self-injury, staff will state, “I need two minutes.” The break interrupts the arguing and allows time for Paula to process information and deescalate. As escalation is observed, staff may remind Paula about natural consequences of emotional outbursts, such as loosing access to her volunteer site, paid employment or a local business. Staff may also distract Paula with an unrelated question or statement to break the behavioral chain. Effectiveness is inconsistent and usually contingent on Paula’s mood, she may engage staff or state “No, not falling” and continue with episode. Staff indicates making statements such as “wow that is going to break” or “ouch, that was hard, you may break your hand,” will terminate property destruction and self-injury. Staff will vary reactive strategies as Paula cycles through her emotional outburst, allow Paula to compose her self after an episode, briefly discuss the situation with her, and continue with an activity or