The present study evaluated the effectiveness of an interdependent group contingency commonly referred to as the “good behavior game” (GBG) on reducing disruptive behaviors in a dedicated classroom for students with emotional behavioral disorder (EBD). The participants were four eighth-grade middle school students, with a primary diagnosis of EBD. The intervention targeted inappropriate and disruptive behaviors during two class periods (math and science), as well appropriate alternative behaviors. The class was divided into two teams, with the four participants divided evenly amongst both teams. If a team met the criterion for both inappropriate and appropriate behavior during experimental sessions, each team member received an edible reinforcer (candy). In addition, teams that met the weekly goal of winning the most games earned a trip to a classroom with younger peers to participate in a social activity (pizza party, movie and popcorn, etc.). The results indicated a decrease in inappropriate behaviors, as well as an increase in appropriate behaviors. The results suggested that the GBG is a beneficial group interdependent contingency that can be implemented in many classroom settings, including an alternative EBD middle school classroom. .

No description available.

Medical errors are the 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S.. The problem is timely recognition and management of inappropriate healthcare worker behaviors that lead to intimidation and loss of staff focus, eventually leading to errors. The purpose of this qualitative modified Delphi study was to seek consensus among a panel of experts in hospital risk management practices on the practical methods for early detection of inappropriate behaviors among hospital staff, which may be used by hospital managers to considerably mitigate the risk of medical mishaps. High reliability theory guided the research process, utilizing the conceptual framework of fair and just culture patient safety model. A single research question asked what level of consensus exists among hospital risk management experts as to the practical methods for early detection of inappropriate behavior among hospital staff, which managers may use to ultimately mitigate the risk of preventable medical mishaps. This study included nonprobability purposive sampling (n=34) and 3 rounds of questionnaires. Consensus was reached on 8 factors: setting expectations, developing a culture of respect, holding staff accountable, enforcing a zero-tolerance policy, confidentiality of reporting, communicating expected behavior, open communication, and investigating inappropriate behaviors. The implications for positive social change include a better understanding of inappropriate behaviors among healthcare workers as well as the potential to minimize its negative impacts and improve patient safety in healthcare organizations.