A Comparison of the Effects of Continuous and Intermittent Response Cost and Reprimands in the Classroom

The effects of continuous and intermittent verbal reprimands and response cost (loss of recess time) on the off-task classroom behaviors of children with behavior problems were examined. Results indicated that all four interventions significantly decreased off-task behavior compared to a no-treatment baseline. The continuous use of response cost resulted in the greatest decrease in off-task behavior, whereas the decreases observed during the other three conditions were comparable. Thus, the consistent use of response cost appears to be the superior discipline strategy.