whether seclusion is contraindicated for psychological or physical health reasons; provision for the pupil to be continually monitored by trained staff; adequate access to drinking water and to a bathroom for a time-out that exceeds 15 minutes; documentation of the length of time spent in each time-out procedure and the number of occurrences each day. M.R.3525.2900 Subp. 5.D. (1-5) Time-out procedures can be effective in reducing self-injurious behavior(s) if the behavior(s) is maintained by social reinforcers such as teachers and/or peers. This procedure would not be effective if the individual exhibits SIB when in isolation. Unconditioned Aversive StimulusAn aversive stimulus is a stimulus that decreases the rate or probability of the behavior when presented as a punishing consequence. These types of procedures should be used only when safety is jeopardized or in cases of extreme behavior problems. Interventions that are less intrusive should be tried first. An unconditioned aversive stimulus is the result of physical pain or discomfort to the student (e.g., pinching or slapping). This class of stimuli includes anything that causes pain: naturally occurring consequences, such as contact with a hot stove, or contrived consequences, such as the application of electric shock (Alberto & Troutman, 1999, p. 310). The application of an aversive stimulus rapidly stops the occurrence of the behavior and may have long-term effects.Noxious Stimuli. Mild aversives such as noxious stimuli are considered to be unconditioned. These stimuli result in irritation, discomfort, and annoyance rather than pain. Water, lemon juice, and aromatic ammonia have all been used as aversive consequences. A study was conducted on a 20-year-old autistic woman who slapped herself repeatedly in the head. The slapping was sometimes accompanied by vocalizations and screams, but her verbalization was limited to only a few words when candy reinforcers were available. When ...
