A review of methods of assessing preference for social stimuli

Abstract

Research on preference and reinforcer assessments has historically focused on the evaluation of edible and leisure reinforcers, but the identification and use of individualized social reinforcers may be beneficial for several reasons. Recently, many studies have evaluated methods of assessing preference for social stimuli. The procedures and outcomes across these studies have varied greatly, and the current state of evidence for methods of assessing preference for social stimuli remains unclear. Thus, we conducted a review to synthesize all previous research in this area, evaluate the evidence for the utility of this general methodology, and identify factors that may influence its utility. Our results suggest that social preference assessments are likely to produce results that correspond with reinforcer assessment hierarchies. Preference assessment modality was one factor that influenced utility; video-based preference assessments had greater correspondence with reinforcer assessments than did other modalities. Directions for future research and implications for the use of social preference assessments in research and practices are discussed.

Single‐ vs. combined‐category preference assessments for edible, leisure, and social‐interaction stimuli

“…Although few studies have historically included social interaction in preference‐assessment arrays, there has been a recent increase in evaluations of methods for identifying reinforcing social interactions (Morris et al, 2023). In a review of preference assessments of social interaction, Morris et al noted variations in the preference‐assessment method and representative stimuli used, reporting that the method used most often was the paired‐stimulus preference assessment with pictorial stimuli (see Kelly et al, 2014, for an example).…”