Date of Award

12-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Kaitlynn Gokey

Second Advisor

Kimberly Sloman

Third Advisor

Bryon Neff

Fourth Advisor

Mariana Juras

Abstract

Problem-solving refers to a behavior evoked by a problem in which the behaver manipulates, supplements, and consequently, generates discriminative stimuli (SD) that they subsequently respond to (Donahoe & Palmer, 2004; Skinner, 1957, 1968). The use of problem-solving when faced with interpersonal conflict reflects pro-social behavior patterns, while providing a learning opportunity for identifying relevant variables and contingencies, and possible reductions of extended conflict or escalation in anti-social behavior patterns. Patterns of preference can be identified following multiple opportunities, given an array of options, resulting in consistency of choice responses (Martin, 2006). When less prosocial (avoiding, yielding), or antisocial (forcing) conflict management strategies are preferred, intervention to shift preferences to more pro-social strategies (compromising, problem-solving) can support more enriched interpersonal relationships and values-driven action. The present study investigated the effects of a values-based computerized behavior skills training (cBST) on shifts in preference for conflict management strategy use with formerly incarcerated individuals. While there were some mixed results, all participants demonstrated mastery for accurate engagement in all strategies during training, subsequently self-identified their preferred strategy as problem-solving, which was supported by their in vivo applications. Statistically significant decreases in reference for the use of forcing, t(7) = 3.75, p = .007, and increases in the use of problem-solving t(7) = -2.90, p = .023, were also reflected in shifts in responding pre-and-post training, with the conflict behavior preference (CB Pref) survey. With study methods and aims indicated as meaningful and socially valid among participants, the novel expansion and positive results indicate the need for continued scientific exploration of flexible behavior-analytic investigation of conflict management and supports for novel populations to improve pro-social behavior.

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