Further comparison of isolated and synthesized contingencies in functional analyses

Further comparison of isolated and synthesized contingencies in functional analyses

Findings

Continuing the conversation around the IISCA vs. the traditional FA, this paper looks specifically at the observational and interviewing techniques used. There seems to be some technological discrepancies between researchers when they conduct these observations and interviews. This discrepancy may begin to explain why there has been such conflicting research from people who agree and disagree with the idea of a synthesized contingency. So, this article attempted to compare different types of observation methods, a structured and an unstructured observation. They also compared this to a structured interview with a caregiver, and used the information gathered to conduct both a traditional functional analysis and an IISCA. They then compared the prevalence of a false positive function. Essentially, they wanted to know if the IISCA would identify a treatment component that is not needed, while the isolated analysis would identify a leaner and more specific treatment. They found that there were some instances of a false positive function, and that the unstructured observation needed to be combined with the open-ended interview to lessen the occurrence of a false positive function.

Research to Practice

The practitioner needs to interpret this information like other papers that argue for or against the IISCA/PFA/SBT methodology. There are advantages and disadvantages of using a synthesized contingency, just as there are advantages and disadvantages of the isolated contingency. Overall, I think that it is important for each practitioner to know all these costs and benefits and take each one into account when they individualize the treatment procedures to the client they serve. This should be done with each specific client, regardless of personal preference. It seems like there is chance that, when using the IISCA, a false positive function can be identified. In that case, the practitioner needs to take that into consideration when choosing what assessment to use and stay up to date on the published research that is discussing this topic.

Citation

Irwin Helvey, C. & Van Camp, C. M. (2022). Further comparison of isolated and synthesized contingencies in functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 55(1), 154-168. https://doi.org/10.1002/jaba.890