Behavioral treatment of self‐stimulation: An examination of alternatives to physical punishment

Abstract
This paper reviews the use of behavioral procedures other than physical punishment in the treatment of the non‐injurious self‐stimulatory behaviors of retarded and autistic individuals. Evidence is presented which suggests that the combination of positive reinforcement for functional responses with deceleration techniques such as extinction or over‐correction may provide an effective means of reducing self‐stimulation and teaching appropriate behaviors.