Final answer:
To decrease the fire-setting behavior maintained by attention, Jackie should use time-out as part of an ABA strategy and redirect the client from the situation without giving attention. Additionally, offering participation in social skills groups or occupational therapy could provide the client with healthier outlets for gaining attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
To decrease her client's frequency of purposeful fire-setting behavior, which is maintained by attention, Jackie, a behavior analyst, should implement a strategy based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). One effective technique that relies on negative punishment is the time-out method. When the client starts fire-setting, they should be calmly and immediately redirected away from the situation and not given the attention they seek. This could help weaken the unwanted behavior through a decrease of reinforcement.
Alongside time-out, Jackie could introduce alternative, positive behaviors that fulfill the client's need for attention in healthier ways. For instance, participation in social communication groups or social skills groups could be beneficial. These groups can help the client learn appropriate social behaviors and ways to seek attention that do not involve harmful activities like fire-setting. Additionally, occupational therapy might assist in developing more productive hobbies or activities. If necessary, consultation with a medical professional about medication options could also be a part of the comprehensive treatment plan.