SUPPRESSION OF PICA USING BRIEF-DURATION PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

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Abstract
Evidently, physical restraint can control pica. Unlike an earlier study which additionally used a verbal reprimand, physical restraint alone was effective. While all 3 durations of physical restraint suppressed pica, the duration of 10 s was more effective than either 30 s used with 1 subject or 3 used with the other in alternating treatments designs. The procedure proved simple to use, took minimal staff training time and required no equipment. During treatment some increase in pica was observed in settings where treatment had not yet been applied but later treatment in these settings quickly controlled the behavior. Collateral behaviors were largely unaffected except for picking and handling, a precursor for pica, which showed variable changes, with reductions being the only large changes.