Date of Award:
5-2013
Document Type:
Dissertation
Degree Name:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department:
Special Education and Rehabilitation
Committee Chair(s)
Sarah E Bloom
Committee
Sarah E. Bloom
Committee
Andrew Samaha
Committee
Timothy A. Slocum
Committee
Thomas S. Higbee
Committee
Michael P. Twohig
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether altering parameters of positive and negative reinforcement in identical ways could influence behavior maintained by each in different ways. Three undergraduate students participated in a series of assessments designed to identify preferred and aversive sounds with similar reinforcing values. Following reinforcer identification, we conducted parameter sensitivity assessments for both positive and negative reinforcers. Parameter manipulations influenced behavior in the same way across reinforcement processes for two participants. However, for one participant, the way in which parameter manipulations influenced behavior differed according to the reinforcement process. Our results suggest that, for at least some individuals, positive and negative sound reinforcement processes do not influence behavior in identical ways. Clinical and theoretical implications are discussed.
Checksum
1941964cf828261aefa6844fa190ab80
Recommended Citation
Lambert, Joseph Michael, "Sensitivity of Human Choice to Manipulations of Parameters of Positive and Negative Sound Reinforcement" (2013). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 1945.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/1945
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