Translational evaluation of a lag schedule and variability in food consumed by a boy with autism and food selectivity.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a lag schedule of positive reinforcement on variability in food consumed by a boy with autism and food selectivity.

METHODS: Using single-subject experimental design methodology, an ABAB design was employed. During lag 0 (condition A), high-preferred toys were delivered contingent on consumption of any food. During lag 1 (condition B), high-preferred toys were delivered contingent on consumption of different foods within session.

RESULTS: Higher levels of variability in within-session consumption were observed during lag 1 conditions.

CONCLUSIONS: The lag 1 schedule of reinforcement increased variability in food consumed. This finding adds to the literature by demonstrating a novel experimental arrangement that may be used in applied studies to evaluate the clinical utility of differentially reinforcing variability in the treatment of food selectivity associated with autism.