Date of Award

12-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Behavioral Analysis

First Advisor

Kimberly Sloman

Second Advisor

Gary Burns

Third Advisor

Kaitlynn Gokey

Fourth Advisor

Robert A. Taylor

Abstract

Delay discounting is the systematic preference for smaller, sooner rewards over larger, later rewards, particularly as the delay to the larger, later reward is increased. It is used to explain impulsivity. Monetary rewards have been most frequently studied; however, impulsivity has also been represented with behavioral treatment outcomes for maladaptive behavior where a caregiver is responsible for its implementation (Call et al., 2015; Scheithauer et al., 2020). Maladaptive behavior is a common concern among families with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Long-term improvements are not uncommon in behavior analysis. It may be detrimental to client gains if caregivers discount longer acting behavior change. The present study implemented a temporal discounting procedure to assess the effects of larger, delayed reinforcer value in the form of delayed treatment outcomes using video-based hypothetical vignettes consisting of college students acting as teachers to students with ASD and differences in severity of maladaptive behavior. This study also assessed delayed monetary rewards for comparison.

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