The concurrent assessment of behavioral and psychostimulant interventions: A controlled case study Article

Schell, RM, Pelham, WE, Bender, ME et al. (1986). The concurrent assessment of behavioral and psychostimulant interventions: A controlled case study . 8(4), 373-384.

cited authors

  • Schell, RM; Pelham, WE; Bender, ME; Andree, JA; Law, T; Robbins, FR

authors

abstract

  • This assessment examined the concurrent applicability of single-subject methodology with a placebo-controlled, double-blind, drug design. A laboratory-based case study described the concurrent assessment of the separate and interactive effects of methylphenidate (MPH) and reinforcement on the behavior of a developmentally disabled child with attention deficit disorder. The results showed that the subject's learning was improved with both behavioral procedures and with MPH. Peak performance occurred when the subject received MPH and reinforcement concurrently. Noncompliant and defiant behavior during laboratory sessions was reduced by MPH, but only defiance was reduced by reinforcement. No incremental effect of combined interventions was obtained on these measures of social behavior. Three follow-up drug assessments conducted in natural settings showed that results obtained in the controlled laboratory conditions had predictive and ecological validity. The applicability of concurrent behavioral and drug assessments is discussed. © 1986.

publication date

  • September 1, 1986

start page

  • 373

end page

  • 384

volume

  • 8

issue

  • 4