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A functional analysis of objects used in stereotyped behavior: The relationship between social and non‐social stimuli
Author(s) -
Murphy Michael J.,
Jones Robert S. P.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
behavioral interventions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.605
H-Index - 34
eISSN - 1099-078X
pISSN - 1072-0847
DOI - 10.1002/bin.2360070402
Subject(s) - psychology , stimulus (psychology) , grasp , social relation , developmental psychology , cognitive psychology , social psychology , computer science , programming language
This study examined the effects of objects, with and without social stimulus properties, on the behavior of children who are severely retarded, and compared such effects with behavior under conditions of minimal stimulation. It was found that these children approach, contact, grasp and interact significantly less often with objects which possess social stimulus properties than with objects which possess no social qualities. These results are discussed in relation to the ongoing debate on the importance of relationships in the reduction of challenging behavior. It is concluded that while having access to close‐bonded relationships may be necessary for the reduction of challenging behavior, in some cases at least, it may not be sufficient .