Behavioral intervention for self-stimulatory, attending and seizure behavior in a cerebral palsied child

This study evaluated the effects of a behavioral treatment package and anti-convulsant medication for reducing self-stimulation and seizure activity, and for improving attention in a 7-yr-old white male. During baseline (A), no direct contingencies for the target behaviors were applied. In the B phase, hand overcorrection for self-stimulation and differential reinforcement of attentional responses and behaviors incompatible with self-stimulation were arranged. Carbamazepine (tegretol) was added to the behavioral program in the BC phase. Medication was later withdrawn while behavioral strategies remained in effect. The results showed rapid and significant improvements in all target symptoms during all phases of behavioral treatment, while introduction and withdrawal of medication did not result in any significant changes. Effects were maintained at 8 months' follow-up.