Teaching Profoundly Retarded Adults to Ascend Stairs Safely

Abstract

The present study describes an attempt to modify the stair-climbing behavior of two profoundly retarded residents. A training package consisting of backward shaping with graduated guidance, edible rewards, a correction procedure, and a 30-second time-out was used to increase appropriate stair climbing. The validity of the training was demonstrated through the use of a multiple baseline design across subjects. Both residents showed an increase in the number of correct steps used while ascending the stairs. Additionally, the amount of time one resident required to ascend the stairs was modified to within normal limits.