Using behavioral economics to prevent relapse of problem behavior

Using Behavioral Economics to Mitigate Relapse of Problem Behavior in an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Population

Not applicable Interventional Oakland University · NCT06651606

This study is testing a new way to help caregivers prevent problem behaviors from coming back in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, comparing it to the usual methods they use.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 21 Years
SexAll
SponsorOakland University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Auburn, Alabama and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06651606 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare a novel approach using Progressive Ratio Training (PRT) against the standard care method for mitigating problem behavior relapse. The study focuses on two types of reinstatement: response-dependent and response-independent, assessing how effectively PRT can reduce these compared to traditional methods. By employing a translational-treatment model, the trial seeks to understand the effectiveness of this innovative tactic in real-world settings, particularly when implemented by caregivers. The goal is to enhance the sustainability of behavioral treatments for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are boys and girls aged 6 to 21 who engage in problem behavior and have a diagnosis of an intellectual or developmental disability.

Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the inclusion criteria, such as those outside the specified age range or without a relevant diagnosis, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the recurrence of problem behaviors in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How similar studies have performed: While behavioral treatments have shown success in controlled settings, this specific approach using behavioral economics to mitigate reinstatement is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Boys and girls from ages 6 to 21
* Engage in problem behavior
* Diagnosis of some type of intellectual and developmental disability

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not meeting the inclusion criteria

Where this trial is running

Auburn, Alabama and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Problem Behavior
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.