Isolating Variables Which Affect TV Preferences of Retarded Children

Abstract

The TV preference of 6 low-level and 6 high-level retardates was determined by providing each S with a simultaneous choice of four alternatives (three TV programs and no program) during baseline. All Ss spent most of each session responding and preferred TV over no program. Ss were then given four simultaneous choices between the preferred program in color, in black and white, audio only, and video only. Of 6 high-level Ss 5 showed a preference for programs in color, 3 low-level Ss showed a preference for black and white presentations, and the other 4 S's showed about equal preferences for color and black and white. The preference technique seems adequate for ascertaining some of the reinforcing variables in TV programs.