Graduated electronic decelerator

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In an illustration by a former resident, a resident pleads for mercy while receiving GED shocks, restrained to a four-point board.

Graduated Electronic Decelerator (GED) is a device used in the field of special education and behavioral therapy for individuals with severe behavioral disorders. It is designed to deliver a controlled electrical stimulus to the skin of the individual as a form of aversive conditioning. The use of GEDs has been a subject of controversy and ethical debate within the psychological, ethical, and special education communities.

Overview

The Graduated Electronic Decelerator is a behavior modification device that administers electrical stimulation to individuals as a negative reinforcement or punishment for undesirable behaviors. The goal of using a GED is to decrease or eliminate harmful or severely disruptive behaviors in individuals who have not responded to other forms of behavioral intervention. It is most commonly used in settings that specialize in the care of individuals with severe autism, intellectual disabilities, and other developmental disorders.

History

The development and use of the GED can be traced back to efforts in the late 20th century to find effective treatments for severe behavioral disorders in individuals with developmental disabilities. Initially, the approach to managing severe behaviors included a variety of aversive and non-aversive interventions. Over time, the GED was introduced as a more controlled and potentially less harmful method compared to previous aversive techniques such as physical restraints or isolation.

Mechanism of Action

The GED device works by delivering a brief, low-voltage electrical shock through electrodes attached to the skin. The intensity, duration, and frequency of the shock can be adjusted depending on the individual's needs and the specific behaviors being targeted. The application of the shock is intended to be immediate and contingent on the occurrence of the targeted behavior, following the principles of operant conditioning.

Ethical Considerations

The use of GEDs has raised significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding the rights of individuals with disabilities, consent, and the potential for abuse. Critics argue that the use of such devices may violate the dignity and rights of individuals who may not be able to give informed consent due to their cognitive impairments. Proponents, however, argue that for some individuals with severe and dangerous behaviors, the GED may be a last resort to prevent self-injury or aggression towards others.

Regulation and Current Use

The regulation of GEDs varies by country and region, with some jurisdictions imposing strict controls or outright bans on their use. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory authority over medical devices, including the GED. The FDA has taken steps to regulate the use of these devices, citing concerns over safety and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Graduated Electronic Decelerator remains a controversial tool in the management of severe behavioral disorders. While it may offer a solution for individuals who have not responded to other interventions, its use is fraught with ethical, legal, and regulatory challenges. Ongoing research, dialogue, and policy development are necessary to ensure that the use of GEDs, if continued, is conducted in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.