Identifying Target Behaviors in Contingency Management: Precision in Intervention

Contingency Management (CM)[1] stands as a pillar of evidence-based practice in behavioral therapy, known for its efficacy in shaping behavior through reinforcement strategies. Central to its success lies the precise identification of target behaviors—key actions or responses that therapy aims to modify or reinforce. This process of pinpointing and defining target behaviors is not just fundamental; it’s the bedrock upon which effective CM interventions are built.

Understanding Target Behaviors
At its core, CM operates on the principle of reinforcement[2], where desired behaviors are encouraged through systematically applied consequences. This makes identifying target behaviors a critical first step. These behaviors are chosen based on their relevance to the individual’s treatment goals[3], the feasibility of measurement, and their susceptibility to change through reinforcement.

Steps to Identify Target Behaviors

1. Assessment and Goal Setting: The process begins with a thorough assessment of the client’s behavior patterns, environment, and treatment objectives. This assessment helps in defining clear, measurable goals that align with the client’s needs and treatment plan.[4]
2. Behavioral Specification: Once goals are established, target behaviors are precisely defined. This involves breaking down complex behaviors into observable, measurable, and specific actions. For instance, instead of “improving attendance,” the target behavior might be defined as “attending scheduled therapy sessions on time at least 80% of the time.”[5]
3. Relevance and Impact: Each identified behavior should be directly relevant to the client’s overall treatment progress and well-being. It’s crucial to prioritize behaviors that, when modified, will have a significant positive impact on the client’s life and treatment outcomes.[6]
4. Feasibility of Measurement: Effective CM relies on accurate and consistent measurement of behaviors. Therefore, target behaviors should be quantifiable and measurable using reliable assessment tools or observational methods.[7] This ensures that progress can be tracked objectively over time.
5. Client-Centered Approach: Involving the client in the process enhances engagement and ownership of the treatment plan. Collaboratively identifying target behaviors ensures that interventions are tailored to the client’s preferences, strengths, and motivations.[8]

Scientific Insights and Data
Research underscores the importance of precision in defining target behaviors. Studies consistently demonstrate that well-defined behaviors lead to more effective reinforcement strategies and better treatment outcomes.[9] For example, studies find that interventions targeting specific, measurable behaviors are significantly more successful in achieving behavior change compared to broader, less defined goals.

Practical Application and Impact
In clinical practice, clinicians often use behavioral contracts or agreements to formalize target behaviors and reinforcement schedules. These documents outline expectations, consequences for meeting or not meeting goals, and the reinforcement schedule agreed upon with the client.

Conclusion
Identifying target behaviors in contingency management is not merely a preliminary step but a cornerstone of effective behavioral intervention. By meticulously defining behaviors, clinicians ensure interventions are targeted, measurable, and impactful, maximizing the potential for positive behavior change. This approach, grounded in scientific principles and data-driven decision-making, continues to revolutionize therapeutic practices and improve client outcomes in diverse clinical settings.

In essence, the efficacy of contingency management hinges on the precision with which clinicians identify and operationalize target behaviors, reflecting a commitment to evidence-based practice and client-centered care.

Would you like to learn more about Contingency Management? Then join us for our Friday Virtual Conference on August 9, 2024, from 9am to 1pm Eastern Time. Continuing education credits are available nationwide. Discover the science behind Contingency Management, why it’s effective for changing any form of behavior, and strategies for behavior activation, consistency, and sustainability. You’ll also learn how to implement it in your own practice. Don’t miss out—register now!

[1] Rash, Carla J., Maxine Stitzer, and Jeremiah Weinstock. “Contingency management: New directions and remaining challenges for an evidence-based intervention.” Journal of substance abuse treatment 72 (2017): 10-18.

[2] Petry, Nancy M., et al. “Prize reinforcement contingency management for treating cocaine users: how low can we go, and with whom?.” Addiction 99.3 (2004): 349-360.

[3] Petry, Nancy M., et al. “Contingency management treatments: Reinforcing abstinence versus adherence with goal-related activities.” Journal of consulting and clinical psychology 74.3 (2006): 592.

[4] Erath, Tyler G., and Florence D. DiGennaro Reed. “Technology‐based contingency management for walking to prevent prolonged periods of workday sitting.” Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis 55.3 (2022): 746-762.

[5] Pfund, Rory A., et al. “Contingency management for treatment attendance: a meta-analysis.” Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment 133 (2022): 108556.

[6] Davis, Danielle R., et al. “A review of the literature on contingency management in the treatment of substance use disorders, 2009–2014.” Preventive medicine 92 (2016): 36-46.

[7] Killeen, Therese K., et al. “Contingency management in community programs treating adolescent substance abuse: a feasibility study.” Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing 25.1 (2012): 33-41.

[8] Averill, Farah. “Contingency Management and Brief Motivational Interviewing Interventions for Impaired Driving Offenders.” (2018).

[9] Bolívar, Hypatia A., et al. “Contingency management for patients receiving medication for opioid use disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” JAMA psychiatry 78.10 (2021): 1092-1102.