An analysis of the selective effects of NCR with punishment targeting problem behavior associated with positive affect

Among individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral problems, self-injury and aggression are often associated with negative affect such as crying. In the current report, we present data on two children who displayed problem behaviors (screaming and self-injury) that were often associated with positive affect. In contrast to their other problem behaviors that were socially mediated, these behaviors were maintained independent of social consequences. One concern about treating problem behavior associated with positive affect is that the treatment may produce generalized reductions in positive affect. In both cases presented in the current study, the reductive effects of a treatment targeting these behaviors were highly selective, producing decreases in screaming and self-injury, while minimally affecting affect.