using applied behavior analysis in addressing biting behavior of a child with autism: a case study

Introduction: this study focuses on a boy with autism spectrum disorder presenting with biting behaviors that interfere significantly with functioning. method: this was a single-case study design examining how techniques of applied behavior analysis can be utilized to decrease the frequency of the child’s biting behavior and increase more adaptive behaviors. results: the findings of the functional analysis indicated that other-inflicted biting behaviors were maintained by contingent escape from task demands (demand condition) and access to preferred objects and activities (tangible condition). moreover, the self-inflicted biting behavior was found to be maintained by sensory stimulation (alone condition). given these, a structured behavioral intervention, consisting of differential reinforcement of alternative behaviors, coupled with extinction targeted to each function of the behavior, was effective in reducing other-inflicted biting behavior in the demand conditions (67% reduction) and in the tangible conditions (95% reduction) as well as reducing self-inflicted behaviors in the alone conditions (100% reduction). more appropriate, adaptive behaviors like compliance, picture-assisted requests, and oral sensory activities also increased significantly. conclusion: these findings indicate that assessment and treatment based on the principles of applied behavior analysis can reduce not only problematic behaviors but also improve adaptive functioning.