Positive Attention: Non-Contingent Attention
This intervention is implemented for students who run away to get attention (being chased or the desire for one on one time with an adult). Instead, consistent, positive attention is given to the student while they are “in bounds” or in the expected area.
How to:
Collect data regarding what triggers the behavior, and how the student is rewarded for the elopement. For example, does the student gain attention from peers? Does the student run away when he/she is left alone without adult support? Does the student show success with additional staffing support?
Implementation:
Implementation:
- Non-contingent attention may vary depending on the student, depending on what type of attention they most desire. Attention is given to the student on a consistent schedule that may vary with age and need, beginning as often as every 30 seconds.
- Types of attention: specific verbal praise (“Thank you for being in your seat”), eye contact, high fives, or keeping close proximity with the student.
- When the student does engage in elopement, the behavior is responded to with the least amount of attention possible.
- Example: Face away from the student, minimize verbal engagement, and guide them towards the appropriate location, where they are given a time out (away from adult and student attention) in a safe place.
- The student can also benefit from Functional Communication Training (FCT), with a focus on prompts to gain attention, and should be practicing FCT skills as well, to decrease the behavior.
Reference:
Kodak, T., Grow, L., & Northup, J. (2004). Functional analysis and treatment of elopement for a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal of
Applied Behavior Analysis, 37(2), 229-232.
Kodak, T., Grow, L., & Northup, J. (2004). Functional analysis and treatment of elopement for a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal of
Applied Behavior Analysis, 37(2), 229-232.
Resources:
- Free PECS visuals
- Collecting data: Antecedent/Behavior/Consequence (ABC)