Response Blocking
Also called: response interruption
Definition
A procedure in which the interventionist physically interrupts a response as it begins so that it cannot be completed, used for behavior that is dangerous or automatically reinforced. It involves physical contact with the person, so it appears in a plan only when the supervising analyst has written it in, staff have been trained in it hands-on, and it complies with employer policy and law. This entry describes what the term means and does not describe how to do it.
In plain language
Stopping a behavior from being completed by physically getting in its way. Because it involves touching the person, it is only ever done as written in a plan by trained staff. This entry does not teach it.
Example
A written plan, with hands-on training, directs staff to interrupt a learner's hand moving toward their own eye.
Not response blocking
Moving a breakable object out of a learner's reach before a session. Changing the environment in advance is an antecedent strategy, not response blocking.
See also
Written from
- lerman-iwata-1996
- abai-restraint-position-2010
Written from Lerman and Iwata (1996) on procedures for automatically reinforced behavior and the ABAI position on restrictive procedures. No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.