Universal Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies and the Premack Principle

Overview of Universal Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Strategies

• Definition and Purpose of Universal Strategies:

  • Universal strategies represent foundational behavior-analytic tools that can be implemented with a wide variety of clients.

  • These strategies can be utilized flexibly across settings and times, even if they are not explicitly written into a client's formal treatment plan.

  • They function analogously to a handyman's tool kit: specific tools are pulled out as needed to work on targeted skills, reduce problem behaviors, or enhance client motivation.

• The Six Universal ABA Strategies:

  • 1. Premack Principle (also referred to as Pre-MAC Principle)

  • 2. Offering Choices

  • 3. Priming

  • 4. Environmental Modification and Arrangements

  • 5. Behavioral Momentum / High Probability Sequence

  • 6. Task Interspersal

The Premack Principle and High-Probability Behaviors

• Core Theoretical Definition:

  • The Premack Principle states that engaging in a high-probability behavior (a highly preferred activity) can serve as a reinforcer for engaging in a low-probability behavior (a less preferred activity).

• Language Formulation ("First, Then" Structure):

  • The principle is communicated to clients using explicit "First [Less Preferred Activity], Then [Highly Preferred Activity]" language.

  • The "First" component represents the less preferred activity, work task, or instruction that needs to be completed prior to receiving reinforcement.

  • The "Then" component represents the highly preferred activity, reinforcer, or choice that the client wants to access.

  • Motivation is driven by the immediate availability of the "Then" activity as soon as the initial task is completed.

• Verbal Contingency Examples:

  • First work, then play.

  • First table time, then play time.

  • First put your shoes on, then go outside.

  • First wash your hands, and then have a snack.

  • First eat dinner, and then have dessert.

  • First homework, and then video games.

  • First brush your teeth, and then TV time.

Visual Supports for Implementing the Premack Principle

• Clinical Authorization and Purpose:

  • Visual supports enhance the implementation of the Premack Principle for clients who require visual concrete aids to comprehend task expectations.

  • The clinical supervisor evaluates the client's needs and determines whether visual supports are required.

• Physical Features of First-Then Boards:

  • Lamination: First-then boards are laminated for physical durability.

  • Velcro Attachments: Images feature Velcro backing so they can easily be attached, detached, and swapped around depending on changing tasks and preferences.

• Detailed Visual Board Exemplars:

  • Clean Up to Playground Contingency:

    • Verbal Instruction: "First clean up, then playground."

    • First Visual: Depicts a child putting toys away (clarifying tasks such as cleaning up items for Miss Rosie).

    • Then Visual: Depicts a playground slide.

  • Table Time to Playtime Contingency:

    • Verbal Instruction: "First table time, then play time."

    • First Visual: Depicts a child seated at a table with flashcards (e.g., conducting matching exercises with Miss Rosie).

    • Then Visual: Depicts an array of toys.

  • Brushing Teeth to iPad Contingency:

    • Verbal Instruction: "First brush your teeth, then iPad."

    • First Visual: Depicts a child actively brushing their teeth.

    • Then Visual: Depicts an iPad.

Practical Formulation and Exercises

• Active Formulation Task:

  • Practitioners practice constructing custom Premack statements beyond standardized templates.

  • Example demonstration statement: "First brush your teeth and then TV time."