Overcorrection and Alternative Response Training in the Reduction of an Autistic Child's Inappropriate Touching

The present study investigated the effects of two intervention strategies on inappropriate touching behavior of an autistic boy. Baseline frequencies of inappropriate touching were high enough to concern the boy's parents and the staff of a day treatment program. Inappropriate touching included stealing, grabbing, and touching objects and other people inappropriately. A positive practice arm movements overcorrection reduced inappropriate touching significantly. However, after 15 weeks, the frequency was still high enough to be of clinical concern. At this point, an alternative response/asking for permission program was added to overcorrection resulting in even greater reduction of touching behavior. Reductions have been stable over a two year period and the parents report generalization of the treatment effects to home and public places.