Incorporating social reinforcers in interventions: Considerations for problem behavior and skill acquisition- 8/9/18

This presentation will review current methods for identifying and assessing the value of social reinforcers in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including ASD. Rationale for using and assessing social reinforcers will be provided, as well as a framework for including such assessments and data into ongoing programs. Finally, considerations will be made for including social reinforcers in interventions for skills acquisition and reduction of problem behavior.

Learning Objectives: After attending this event, participants should be able to

1. Describe the rationale for incorporating social reinforcers in interventions
2. List and understand the steps to perform three methods for identifying social reinforcers
3. Discuss the pros and cons of each of the above methods
4. Describe the rationale for conducting preference and reinforcer assessments for social rewards beyond identification

Andrew Samaha received his Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2008 under the supervision of Dr. Timothy Vollmer.  After graduating, he served as a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation at Utah State University.  From 2009 to 2013, he was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Utah State University while serving as Co-Director of the Severe Behavior Clinic.



Dr. Samaha is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Child and Family Studies within the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences at the University of South Florida.  His research interests focus on concepts and methods to assess and change preference and reinforcer value, and its application with respect to skill acquisition, transition, and assessment and treatment of severe problem behavior in individuals with ASD and other intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Dr. Samaha receives speaker fees for presenting for ABAC.