Applied Behavioral Frames Case Study

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The applied behavioral frames are a, “useful approach to working with persons with developmental disabilities, mental retardation, or other mental health conditions…” (Cole & Tufano, 2008, p. 141). Applied behavioral frames were selected as suitable for Paul, due to his diagnosis of mild mental retardation during his childhood. This FOR is a useful approach for addressing mental retardation by using specific evaluation assessments and interventions. This FOR is suitable for Paul due to the focus of addressing behavioral challenges and modifying undesirable behaviors. Christiansen and Matuska (2004), describe how OT’s use this FOR to, “facilitate desired behaviors through defining goals and working toward them using skill instruction, modeling, …show more content…
According to the change and motivation outlined in the applied behavioral frame, reinforcement should be a focal aspect used to modify behavior (Cole & Tufano, 2008). There is also a component of change that outlines how to extinguish unwanted behaviors. According to this FOR, “extinguishing unwanted behaviors involves withdrawal of reinforcement” (Cole & Tufano, 2008, p. 144). Extinguishing unwanted behavior approach could be applied to Paul, however this will be a difficult feat. “Removing the cues that trigger the behavior as well as consequences that may be reinforcing it are necessary for behavior to change” (Cole & Tufano, 2008, p. …show more content…
Behavior contracts consist of creating, “a written agreement defining what both the client and therapist will do with regard to working on specific defined goals” (Cole & Tufano, 2008, p. 144). “Behavior contracts are especially helpful when working with mental health clients because they specify the consequences for meeting or not meeting certain expectations, making them more objective (as opposed to emotion based)” (Cole & Tufano, 2008, p. 144). A behavior contract could be used between Paul and his mother. If Paul does not show the appropriate behavior, he is fully aware of the consequence of his actions. Therefore, he will less likely exhibit burst of aggression and anger because he is aware of the consequences prior to poor