Autism reversal: eliminating stereotyped self stimulation of retarded individuals

Stereotyped self stimulation by retarded persons is a common problem for which no practical treatment exists. Based on the theory that this autistic behavior is caused by a deficit of environmental reinforcement for outward directed activities, a reinforcement program was devised for use with retarded adults. This reinforcement program reduced self stimulation by about 2/3. Further reduction was attempted using an overcorrection procedure. The overcorrection procedure, when combined with the reinforcement program, reduced the self stimulation by 95% after two days and virtually eliminated the problem thereafter. The combined procedure was maintained as a feasible ongoing ward program.