Abstract
This study investigated the clinical effectiveness of two DRA procedures with different reinforcement contingencies in transforming generalized and localized self-stimulatory behaviors (GSSB and LSSB) in four autistic and four mentally retarded children of equivalent mental age into appropriate toy play. The first procedure, artificial DRA, presented the sensori stimulation demonstrated as artificial reinforcer contingent on appropriate toy play. The results showed that both GSSB and LSSB were transformed to appropriate toy play in the mentally retarded children but not in the autistic children. d The second procedure, natural DRA, provided opportunities for playing appropriately with the toy producing the sensory reinforcer identified for each SSB. The results showed that both GSSB and LSSB were transformed to appropriate toy play in the autistic children, and these improvements were performed and maintained outside of treatment settings without special: intervention. The findings suggest that natural DRA could play an essential role in treating autistic children.
