Antecedent Interventions

Abstract Antecedent interventions alter antecedent or setting events/establishing operations associated with challenging behavior. They are implemented prior to challenging behavior and are designed to preclude the opportunity or motivation for challenging behavior. This review of research and applications identified 20 literature reviews or meta-analyses on antecedent-only interventions or multicomponent interventions that included antecedent interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Hundreds of studies have been conducted evaluating variations of antecedent-only or multicomponent (including antecedent) interventions. The literature indicates antecedent interventions are moderately to highly effective from preschool age to adulthood for many target behaviors. However, a few studies reported no or small effects, likely due to behaviors resistant to intervention. Research suggests antecedent interventions offer an excellent option for improving behavior. Additional research is needed to ascertain what antecedent intervention approaches are most likely to occasion desirable change for specific target behaviors and evaluate effects of additional components.