Reduction of Elopement Using a Multicomponent Treatment in Young Children with ASD

Elopement, leaving a caregiver's side without permission or supervision, is a behavior that is more prevalent among children with autism as compared to their typically developing peers. With potentially fatal consequences (e.g., exposure to water, traffic, and strangers), it is reported to cause high levels of stress for caregivers. In the present study, we evaluated the assessment and treatment of elopement using a multicomponent treatment package to address the multiple functions of elopement. Treatment consisted of verbal instructions, blocking, and differential reinforcement of other behaviors with extinction (DRO w/ EXT). An ABAB reversal design was utilized to assess treatment effectiveness. Results showed a significant reduction of elopement following the first phase of treatment for both participants. However, for one participant, previous reduction rates were not reached upon reimplementation. The implications for practice and limitations are discussed.