Technological aids to support choice strategies by three girls with Rett syndrome.

Abstract

This study was aimed at extending the use of assistive technology (i.e., photocells, interface and personal computer) to support choice strategies by three girls with Rett syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities. A second purpose of the study was to reduce stereotypic behaviors exhibited by the participants involved (i.e., body rocking, hand washing and hand mouthing). Finally, a third goal of the study was to monitor the effects of such program on the participants' indices of happiness. The study was carried out according to a multiple probe design across responses for each participant. Results showed that the three girls increased the adaptive responses and decreased the stereotyped behaviors during intervention phases compared to baseline. Moreover, during intervention phases, the indices of happiness augmented for each girl as well. Clinical, psychological and rehabilitative implications of the findings are discussed.

• Authors: Fabrizio Stasolla, Viviana Perilli, Antonia Di Leone, Rita Damiani, Vincenza Albano, Anna Stella, Concetta Damato
• Journal: Research in developmental disabilities (Res Dev Disabil) Vol. 36 Pg. 36-44 (Jan 2015) ISSN: 1873-3379 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 25310833 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Affect
• Child
• Choice Behavior
• Female
• Happiness
• Humans
• Quality of Life
• Rett Syndrome (complications, rehabilitation)
• Self-Help Devices
• Stereotyped Behavior
• Stereotypic Movement Disorder (etiology, rehabilitation)