Reducing Severe Behavior Problems among Persons with Dual Sensory Impairments: An Evaluation of a Technical Assistance Model

Abstract

A consultation model to provide technical assistance for the treatment of severe behavior problems exhibited by persons with severe/profound retardation and dual sensory impairments (deaf/blind) is evaluated. Technical assistance was provided to two programs in the areas of behavior management and curriculum design. During visits to these programs, we: (a) identified problem behaviors and possible controlling variables, (b) identified curriculum needs and made recommendations for changes, (c) videotaped clients and staff and established staff-implemented data collection procedures, (d) trained staff and intervened with each client using functional communication training, and (e) conducted follow-up observations. A “correlated probe” design combining staff-collected and consultant-collected data was used to evaluate the results of the technical assistance. Data from five individuals who engaged in behaviors such as severe aggression, self-injury, and tantrums are presented. Clients with dual sensory impairments were successfully taught to communicate basic requests, and this resulted in significant reductions in behavior problems for four of the five clients at follow-up. Issues related to a technical assistance model are discussed, including steps for programming maintenance.