ocedure(s) should be read thoroughly before recommending or implementing its use. Conditioned Aversive StimulusA conditioned aversive stimulus is a stimulus that is learned by pairing the stimulus with an unconditioned aversive stimulus. An example would be an individual receiving a verbal reprimand such as scolding accompanied by a firm grasp of his or her arm. The unconditioned stimulus (firm grasp) has been paired with the conditioned stimulus (scolding). Overcorrection is a behavior reduction technique that includes training in appropriate behaviors. Restitutional Overcorrection. This procedure is implemented by requiring an individual to restore or correct an environment that they have disturbed. Not only does the environment have to be restored to its original condition, it has to go beyond that. If a student is engaging in a SIB such as skin biting to the extent that blood is drawn and dripping on the floor; the student should not only have to mop up his or her own blood, but be required to mop up all the floors. This could be an example of restitutional overcorrection. ConclusionThere are many different topographies to self-injurious behavior(s) and various reinforcers that are maintaining the behavior(s). The key to decreasing such behaviors is to first try to increase more appropriate behaviors. This can be done by using less intrusive interventions such as differential reinforcement and extinction and then, if necessary, implementing more intrusive interventions such as response cost and time-out procedures. Finally, as a last resort, the presentation of an aversive stimulus can be used for decreasing the target behavior.NOTE: When using any of the above-mentioned interventions, it is important that a person be properly informed of and trained in the procedure before recommending or implementing use of that procedure....
