ERIC Number: EJ1168913
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Mar
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1053-8151
EISSN: N/A
Effects of Reinforcement on Peer Imitation in a Small Group Play Context
Barton, Erin E.; Ledford, Jennifer R.
Journal of Early Intervention, v40 n1 p69-86 Mar 2018
Children with disabilities often have deficits in imitation skills, particularly in imitating peers. Imitation is considered a behavioral cusp--which, once learned, allows a child to access additional and previously unavailable learning opportunities. In the current study, researchers examined the efficacy of contingent reinforcement delivered within a small group play context on the unprompted peer imitation (UPI) behaviors of three children with disabilities. UPI behaviors increased when contingent reinforcement was provided, and maintained with a thinned schedule of reinforcement. However, pretend play and social interactions did not increase concurrently with peer imitation.
Descriptors: Reinforcement, Imitation, Play, Child Behavior, Contingency Management, Group Activities, Disabilities, Interpersonal Relationship, Preschool Children, Generalization, Females
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: H325K140110