Applied behavior analysis facilitates the development of language, social …show more content…
The individual suffered from profound memory, reasoning, and insight deficits. Therefore, traditional behavior modification using reinforcement and consequences was unsuccessful. The individual was unable to recall what behavior resulted in reward or consequence and had limited ability to understand the effects of his behavior. The treatment team made changes to the environment by eliminating noise and touch, which had previously served as triggers for problem behaviors. These changes were effective in reducing the problem behaviors. A study preformed by Zencious et al (1989) demonstrated for three patients that changes in antecedents produced behavioral improvements after attempts to alter by consequences proved to be only marginally successful. Understanding antecedents can be an essential factor in the process of changing