An automatic device for toilet training

A chain of subject-initiated toileting behavior was established and maintained in three enuretic and encopretic profoundly retarded adults through the use of an automatic device which both monitored eliminations and dispensed candy reinforcers. When the device reinforced elimination, the incidence of urinations and defecations in clothing was sharply reduced in each subject, while the frequency of appropriate toileting behavior increased. With the device nonoperative (extinction), the behavior relapsed toward pretraining levels. In reconditioning, with the device again functional, post-training levels were re-established. The device was reliable and was seen to eliminate many of the difficulties inherent in toilet training.