Investigation of a reinforcement-based toilet training procedure for children with autism

Res Dev Disabil. 2002 Sep-Oct;23(5):319-31. doi: 10.1016/s0891-4222(02)00136-1.

Abstract

Independent toileting is an important developmental skill which individuals with developmental disabilities often find a challenge to master. Effective toilet training interventions have been designed which rely on a combination of basic operant principles of positive reinforcement and punishment. In the present study, the effectiveness of a reinforcement-based toilet training intervention was investigated with three children with a diagnosis of autism. Procedures included a combination of positive reinforcement, graduated guidance, scheduled practice trials and forward prompting. Results indicated that all procedures were implemented in response to urination accidents. A three participants reduced urination accidents to zero and learned to spontaneously request use of the bathroom within 7-11 days of training. Gains were maintained over 6-month and 1-year follow-ups. Findings suggest that the proposed procedure is an effective and rapid method of toilet training, which can be implemented within a structured school setting with generalization to the home environment.

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / psychology
  • Autistic Disorder / rehabilitation*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Education, Special*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care
  • Toilet Training*
  • Token Economy*