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Date of Graduation
5-7-2020
Semester of Graduation
Spring
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Department of Graduate Psychology
Second Advisor
Daniel D. Holt
Third Advisor
Bryan K. Saville
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to use a specialized form of differential attention to increase the length of time a child is able to remain within close proximity of an adult during play. The therapist used two sets of skills in the context of play, one for when the child was within close proximity, and the other for when the child was not. The close proximity skills were adapted from Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, an evidence-based therapy designed to create and maintain positive interactions between parent and child. The second skill set consisted of positive play statements and descriptive play statements. The therapist used these skills to provide attention differentially during play, emphasizing the attention and anecdotal fun available within close proximity of the adult. The goal was for the therapist to establish stimulus control, acting as a symbolic “magnet” for the child’s return to the play area, without providing attention when the child was not in close proximity. Data collection was terminated before the study was concluded because of the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.
