Antecedent and Consequent Control of Medical Regimen Adherence Skills of an Adult with Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

This paper describes a single case evaluation of the effects of several behavioral interventions designed to teach and maintain medical regimen adherence skills of an adult with developmental disabilities. Two skills critical to successful regimen adherence were targeted for intervention (1) medication matching, and (2) on-time administration. Both antecedent and consequent interventions were used to establish and maintain the behaviors.

Results indicated that through instruction and manipulation of antecedent and consequent events, complex medical regimen skills could be taught and maintained at levels comparable to those of non-handicapped persons. In addition, the results indicated that each target behavior was differentially affected by the stimulus control and reinforcement interventions. Discussion focuses on the need for further research in this area, and the development of medical regimen adherence curricula as part of on going community living skills programs provided by community agencies.

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