Brief functional analysis of repetitive verbal behavior (vocal stereotypy) for an adult with acquired brain injury

Background: The behavior analytic method of functional analysis (FA) is a process for identifying behavior-environment functional relations. Some research indicates the use of FA procedures to determine the environmental factors that maintain odd or inappropriate verbal behavior. The current study demonstrates the use of an FA to identify environmental influences on repetitive verbal behavior for an adult with acquired brain injury (ABI). Methods: A brief FA of repetitive verbal behavior was conducted in an outpatient program for individuals with ABI. Four conditions were alternated in a multielement single-case experimental design. Data were collected across conditions to determine if specific contextual variables differentially influenced the occurrence of repetitive verbal behavior. Results: Data revealed increased occurrences of repetitive verbal behavior in a test condition that included contingent attention. Conclusions: Specific environmental factors were identified as sources of control for repetitive verbal behavior. The results of this case report support the use of FA for repetitive verbal behavior exhibited by individuals with ABI.