The use of electric shock to reduce head-banging in a mentally retarded boy — A case study

Abstract

SummaryThe present study describes procedures by which aversive stimulation was used in combination with a programme of positive reinforcement to reduce head-banging by a mentally retarded boy. There was a dramatic reduction in head-banging over the forty-six sessions for which records were kept. The child's behaviour improved to the stage where he could be included in a school programme without the risk of self-inflicted injury. The programme that is described is useful in cases of severe head-banging where action must be taken quickly to prevent self-inflicted damage of a permanent nature.