The Reduction of Low Frequency Aggression in a Woman with Learning Difficulties

Abstract

In the past, aggressive behaviour shown by people with learning difficulties has often been reduced by means of punishment. A non-punitive alternative to punishment is Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviours (DRO). However, there is no evidence that DRO can be used to reduce target behaviours that are less frequent than once or twice a day. A case study is presented in which DRO is used to reduce aggression in a lady who was aggressive once or twice a month. The factors that may have led to the effectiveness of DRO in this case are discussed.