An Illustration of Positive Behavioral Support in the Workplace for Individuals with Severe Mental Retardation

Abstract

This article descn'bes the use of positive behavioral support in the workplace for an individual with severe mental retardation and chronic job-threatening behaviors. Multiple interventions, including differential reinforcement, permanent prompts, and coworker support were used in an AB design for two unappealing behaviors, inappropriate nose wiping and loud snorting noises. Coworker and supervisor assessments of behavioral change were far more positive than the data indicate, likely because of the effect of renewed social contact on perceptions of the individual and his behaviors.