Abstract

We completed a retrospective analysis of the addition and removal of a contingent skin-shock (i.e., positive punishment) procedure as part of the comprehensive behavioral treatment of severe problem behaviors. Participants demonstrated clinically significant decreases in the frequency of severe aggressive and health dangerous (e.g., self-injurious) behaviors when contingent skin-shock was in place. Immediate and substantial increases in problem behavior and emergency restraint were observed upon discontinuation of the procedure. The findings provide support for the supplemental use of contingent skin-shock as the least intrusive, most effective, and efficient treatment available for the severe problem behaviors of some individuals.