An additional assessment method that was used was the Adult Behavior Checklist (ABCL). Tenneij and Koot (2007) state that this testing instrument has demonstrated reliability in test-retest correlations and internal stability of scales. This assessment method is given to those who work closely with, or are very familiar with, the client. The questionnaire consists of 118 items that are related to behavioral problems. The answers to these questions are to be answered in the form of not true, somewhat true or very true. The assessment was given to Mr. Smith and Mr.
Henry. The results of the assessments helped to confirm that Matt’s behaviors are functioning as escape from work. Both have reported that Matt will find an excuse to not have to talk about certain issues, ask to go to the bathroom when tasks arise that are difficult and when it is time to clean up. As a behavior analyst, we have a responsibility to our clients to give the best treatment possible and it is imperative that they receive the best care by using scientifically validated materials.
According to Bailey and Burch (2011), ethical guideline 1. 1 states that the behavior analyst is to rely on scientifically and professional based knowledge when drawing any form of conclusion. By using an assessment such as the ABCL, the behavior analyst is following ethical guidelines by using an assessment method that has been proven to be scientifically validated and reliable. Treatment plan Once the indirect and direct methods were completed, it was determined that the function of Matt’s behavior would serve to function as escape. By listening to the music and going off task, Matt is escaping the demands that are being placed.
In order to keep Matt on task, a schedule has been created and placed in his work station. The board consists of two columns. The column on the left is labeled “To Do”, and has pictures in the order of the steps that are to be completed for each task. As he completes each task, he then moves the picture that represents that particular step to the “Finished” column. Each hour, his boss comes in and checks to ensure that he has completed his work. Reinforcement in the form of short breaks has be given for completion of tasks.
During these breaks, Matt is allowed to eat a small snack in order to keep his blood sugar from dropping. Matt has also been given a pair of noise canceling headphones that he is to put on whenever he begins to feel distracted by the music. Although the noise cancelling headphones will assist with Matt not being able to hear the music, the behavior analyst has to be careful with violating ethical guideline 2. 10. According to Bailey and Burch (2011), the behavior analyst has the responsibility to recommend the most effective treatment procedures possible for the client.
By giving Matt noise canceling headphones, he will not be able to hear anything else that is going on around him, including other people, instructions from his boss and any warnings that may signal danger such as a fire. In order to ensure that treatment efficacy is being followed and the client’s best interest is being taken as the number one priority, the headphones that are chosen will have to be beneficial for the purpose of drowning out the music, but not cancelling out all sounds.
To address Matt’s issues with the alcohol and cannabis use, a drug test is being given on a weekly basis. Matt has been informed that if he engages in these behaviors, he will have to quit his job and will be placed in a rehabilitation center where he will be monitored twenty four hours a day until the facility feels that he is ready to be released. According to Bailey and Burch (2011), ethical guideline 2. 0 states that the behavior analyst has the responsibility to act in the best interest of the client.
By ensuring that Matt is taking care of his health by not abusing drugs and alcohol, which can also be a reason for the shakiness, lightheadedness and dizzy spells, he will be able to continue on with his job and maintain a healthy lifestyle and function within society. Results The goal set for Matt was to complete five tasks per hour. In order to stay in compliance with ethical guideline 4. 07, which states that the behavior analyst needs to collect data, which can be done by the client, client surrogate or someone who has been designated to collect the needed data (Bailey & Burch, 2007), Mr.
Smith has been asked to collect and share the data on a weekly basis. Prior to the start of the intervention, he was given a set of data sheets and asked to mark down whether or not Matt completed his tasks on time. He was trained on how to record the data and was asked to give the completed data sheets to the behavior analyst on a weekly basis. As shown within the data that has been collected, Matt has completed all tasks in the allotted time each day.
On occasion Matt can ecome distracted by the music, but with the assistance of his job coach, he has learned to use the noise cancelling headphones that have been provided for him. His boss reports that he has successfully passed all drug tests and has reported fewer incidents of feeling lightheaded, shaky and rarely complains of headaches. Although the treatment plan put into place has been successful and Matt is doing well, this plan will remain in place. By removing the plan too soon, Matt may relapse into engaging in the unwanted behaviors again.
The plan will remain in place and he will continue to undergo drug testing on a weekly basis for a total of three months. If he remains clean and free of any signs of substance abuse, he will undergo drug testing every other week until he is able to be tested only once a month. In conclusion, it is vital to stick to the ethical guidelines to ensure that Matt is getting the best service that can be provided to him. By following the treatment plan and keeping accurate data, Matt can continue to make progress and stay on the right track.
