The effects of tactile choices on the behavior of a child with autism / by Christle Dowdy McKinney.

Author/creator McKinney, Christle Dowdy author.
Other author Griffin, Harold C., degree supervisor.
Other author East Carolina University. Department of Special Education.
Format Theses and dissertations
Production2000.
Description33 leaves : illustrations ; 28 cm
Supplemental ContentAccess via ScholarShip
Subjects

Summary The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of tactile choices on the behavior of a ten-year-old boy with autism. The child, John, had received special education services in a self-contained classroom for children with autism for five years. He exhibited behaviors such as kicking, biting, pinching, banging, throwing objects and inappropriate vocalizations. These behaviors were targeted for reduction. John enjoyed swinging, wrestling, being tickled and being squashed under beanbag chairs. A single subject reversal design provided John with a choice of tactile activities including a weighted vest, a vibrating mat, touch therapy and brush therapy. These treatments were provided every two hours during treatment phases B1 and B2. During baseline phases A1 and A2, John was given individual attention on the above schedule but was not given any tactile input. Each phase lasted for ten days. Following therapy, John's target behaviors were reduced from an average of 23.1 per day (A1) to an average of 12.8 per day (B2). His most dangerous and disruptive behavior was kicking. It was reduced from an average of 9.5 times a day (Al) to an average of 3.75 times a day (B2). The frequency and duration of his tantrums also decreased. His inappropriate vocalizations increased from an average of 1.1 per day (Al) to an average of 6.5 per day (B2). It was recommended that he continue to be given tactile choices over the summer and as needed in the following school year.
General noteSubmitted to the faculty of the Department of Special Education.
General noteAdvisor: Harold C. Griffin
Dissertation noteM.A. Ed. East Carolina University 2000
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (leaves 32-33).
Genre/formAcademic theses.
Genre/formAcademic theses.
Genre/formThèses et écrits académiques.

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