Response Interruption and Redirection (RIRD) refers to the evidence-informed practice that is used to decrease inappropriate and maladaptive behaviors, specifically those that are repetitive or stereotypic. RIRD has been demonstrated in multiple studies for its effectiveness in reducing behaviors that are not generally associated with or maintained by social consequences (e.g., escape/avoidance or attention). The mechanism for the efficacy of RIRD has been described as an obstruction that interrupts or gets in the way of an individual engaging in stereotypic and repetitive behaviors. The therapist then redirects the individual to a more adaptive and appropriate behavior (Ahearn, Clark, & McDonald, 2007). In this review, the existing empirical literature on RIRD as an intervention for automatically reinforced vocal stereotypy is analyzed. It will include studies between the years 2007 and 2018. Based on the findings of these studies, recommendations for practitioners regarding RIRD in the treatment of vocal stereotypy are provided.
