Social implications of behavioral interventions for persons with mental retardation

Abstract

The influence of type of behavioral program and program outcome on university students' perceptions of a hypothetical 17-year-old boy with mental retardation who exhibited severe self-injury was examined. A positive program was viewed as more acceptable and effective than were other programs (extremely aversive, mildly aversive, positive combined with extremely aversive, and control). Successful programs were also judged more acceptable and effective than were unsuccessful ones. When a program succeeded the individual was also seen as more likable, competent, adjusted, capable of learning, responsible, and problem-free. These preliminary findings point to the merits of considering the individual's social image in evaluating treatment acceptability.