Problem:
Antecedent Variables: The primary antecedent, or trigger, for SIB is the denial, removal, or delay of access to highly preferred tangible items, specifically Hot Wheels cars and Legos. This is often signaled by caregiver instructions to transition (e.g., "clean up," "time for dinner"). This establishes an abolishing operation (AO) for compliance and an establishing operation (EO) for SIB, as the unavailability of the items increases the value of gaining access to them as a reinforcer (Cooper et al., 2019). Johnny's rigid and ritualistic behavioral patterns, characteristic of ASD, likely intensify the EO when his access to these specific items is interrupted. Consequence Variables: The consistent consequence following SIB is that Johnny is given, or regains, access to the preferred tangible item. For example, a parent stops the demand to provide a car, or a teacher removes a peer and gives Johnny a different Lego. This consequence reliably terminates the SIB in the short term. Function: Therefore, the hypothesized function of Johnny's self-injurious behavior is positive reinforcement in the form of access to tangible items (Steege et al., 2019). The behavior is maintained because it has been historically and effectively used by Johnny to obtain his desired objects. This function is highly plausible given the background information that he is only "well-behaved" when access to these items is free and frequent. Summarize this. Need Assignment Help?