Factors Related to the Efficacy of Treatment of Enuresis

Abstract

The variables of sex, frequency of wetting, a family history of enuresis, and use of positive reinforcement were examined to determine if they were significantly related to response to the bell-and-pad procedure. Dependent measures were number of days required to achieve dryness and frequency of wetting in a 1-yr. follow-up. Among the findings was that girls achieved the dryness criterion more quickly than boys. Frequency of enuresis was inversely related to number of days required to achieve dryness. Evidence was obtained suggesting a genetic basis for resistance to reduction in enuretic behavior. Children who were tangibly reinforced for dryness did not wet less frequently in the follow-up nor did they achieve the dryness criterion more quickly.