Maternal Treatment Acceptability and Preference of Room Time-out
and Deferred Time-out Escape Contingencies
Kristin L. Kunkle, MS
Abstract
Time-out is a key component of behavioral-training programs (e.g., McNeil & Hembree-Kigin, 2010; Barkley, 1997). A difficulty encountered with this component is that many non-compliant children refuse to stay in time-out for the required time (Roberts, 1982a). Behavioral parent training programs use time-out room as an escape contingency to extinguish this resistance, but this method can be emotionally demanding, logistically difficult, and dangerous if specific instructions are not followed. Deferred time-out, an alternative escape contingency requiring no force or restraint, involves removing access to attention and desired tangibles that the child cannot access independently until he voluntarily completes the time-out (Warzak & Floress, 2009). The present study aimed to examine mothers' pre-treatment preference and acceptability, as well as predictors, for these two time-out escape contingencies. On average, both treatments were rated as moderately acceptable. Neither treatment was preferred significantly more often than the other by the overall sample. Mothers’ overreactive parenting (particularly spanking) was associated with preference for deferred time-out. Lax parenting was associated with decreased deferred time-out acceptability. The most accurate predictor of maternal treatment preference was prior success using some form of a treatment’s key components, and older child age was associated with decreased acceptability for both treatments. Deferred time-out could provide an alternative escape contingency for mothers who are overreactive or unsuccessful using time-outs in a room. Future research should compare effectiveness and acceptability following the implementation of these treatments. Knowledge of these acceptability predictors could increase clinician’s inclination to use additional engagement strategies and appropriate treatment adjustments.