Nocturnal Bruxism Treated by Massed Negative Practice

Abstract

A form of massed negative practice was used to treat a chronic case of nocturnal bruxism in a college-age female. The practice regimen varied from previous procedures in that an increased number of repetitions were performed and practice was focused just prior to sleep. Data were gathered by automated time-sampling recording of the behavior throughout the night. Bruxing was reduced quickly and substantially and remained low as the treatment procedures were phased out and then discontinued. Implications for the treatment of this disorder using massed negative practice are considered.