Psychiatry and Psychology Commons^™

Eliminating Drooling Behavior In An Adult Diagnosed Mentally Retarded Male, John Allison

Graduate Theses

This single subject experiment was conducted to determine whether a 23-year-old male could be taught to swallow his saliva, thus eliminating his drooling behavior. The subject had been diagnosed as severely retarded early in life and was reported to have drooled his entire life. The experiment was conducted in the sheltered workshop where the subject is employed, utilizing positive reinforcement in the form of verbal praise, Kennedy half dollars and participation in social events. The subject learned to swallow quickly and easily. His drooling behavior was eliminated and apparent generalizations. had positive effects on his work habits, social behavior, and …