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The effects of differential reinforcement of other behaviour (DRO) were investigated for the treatment of severe self-injurious nail biting in an individual diagnosed with autism. A functional behaviour assessment (FBA) identified that the behaviour was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Following the implementation of the DRO procedure and access to reinforcing stimuli that were believed to provide similar sensory feedback to that of the self-injurious nail biting, the results indicate that the nail biting was successfully reduced and maintained at near zero levels.

Habitual behaviors, such as problematic nail biting, are a common target for self-managed behavior-modification programs. The current self-experiment used self-monitoring in conjunction with a self-managed differential-reinforcement procedure for the treatment of problematic nail biting. A simple picture-comparison procedure allowed an independent observer to assist in monitoring treatment progress and outcomes and to ensure treatment integrity. Results provide support that the overall treatment package was successful in decreasing the occurrence of nail biting. Moreover, the treatment-integrity procedure enabled full-day monitoring to take place with limited requirement of a secondary observer.