Improving Mealtime Behaviors of a Multihandicapped Child Using Behavior Therapy Techniques

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Abstract
In the present study, inappropriate mealtime behaviors of a multihandicapped child were modified via behavior therapy techniques. The subject was a blind, mentally retarded, behaviorally disordered, 10-year-old girl who was hospitalized for severe self-injurious behavior. Mealtime target behaviors included appropriate head and hand positions (essentially, absence of eye-poking, face-hitting and other self-injurious behavior) as well as napkin and utensil use. Two treatments were implemented: 1) audiotapes of favorite stories were played during the mealtime sessions which were turned off during inappropriate or self-injurious behavior; 2) praise (plus access to food) for appropriate napkin and utensil use begun once desired sitting posture had been established. Assessment of trainer behavior showed good compliance with treatment procedures, suggesting the feasibility of implementing the treatment program in other settings.