The Reduction of Hyperactive Behavior in Three Profoundly Retarded Adolescents through Increased Stimulation

Abstract

This study was designed to determine the effects of increased stimulation on the hyperactive behavior of three profoundly retarded boys. The setting for the study was a bathroom at a residential facility for mentally retarded individuals. Hyperactive behavior was measured under baseline and increased stimulation conditions through an a-b-a-b design. Increased stimulation consisted of greatly enriching the bathroom environment with auditory and visual stimulation. The results of the study indicate that increased simulation was effective in reducing the subjects' hyperactive behavior. Two conclusions can be drawn. First, the frequency of hyperactive behavior can be decreased by using a great deal of auditory and visual stimulation in a natural setting. Second, the study implies that the subjects may be more receptive to skill training in a sensorially stimulating environment.