Training developmentally disabled adults in independent meal preparation. Acquisition, generalization and maintenance

Abstract

This study examined the generalization and maintenance effects of a structured meal preparation training program for mildly and moderately developmentally disabled adults living in a community home. Dependent measures comprised the percentage of self-initiated steps and disruptive behavior during each of two meal preparation settings. The first comprised the training setting and the second a generalization probe setting. A variety of measures of staff implementation of the treatment procedure were also employed, including correct use of prompts and reinforcement. Following baseline sessions, where staff used their existing preferred mode of teaching meal preparation skills, treatment was introduced within a multiple baseline design across subjects. Experimental treatment consisted of a pictorial cookbook and instructions, and feedback to trainers regarding the appropriate use of prompts and social reinforcement. Results showed that training was effective in increasing the number of steps clients were able to complete independently in both the training and generalization settings. Maintenance probes at post training and at 3-month follow-up revealed that skill levels had been maintained and that staff continued to implement training instructions with a high level of accuracy