An Evaluation of Haptic Feedback to Reduce Toe Walking

Haptic feedback involves the delivery of a vibratory stimulus contingent upon a behavior targeted for increase or decrease. Among other applications, it has been used to prompt initiation of social interactions and increase on-task time in children with disabilities. In the current study, we used a combination reversal and nonconcurrent multiple baseline design to evaluate haptic feedback delivered via a bracelet to reduce toe walking exhibited by an adolescent with autism and a typically developing young adult. The feedback was effective to reduce toe walking to low levels. In addition, participants reported that the bracelet was helpful to improve their gait. Participants also noted that they would be willing to wear the bracelet outside of research sessions. We discuss the possible behavioral mechanisms responsible for the effects of the haptic feedback and provide directions for future research.