How are you adjusting reinforcement to reduce maladaptive behavior? Can you reinforce a more appropriate, alternative behavior to replace the maladaptive behavior?
Reinforce appropriate coping behaviors rather than melt-downs or inappropriate behaviors that happen in response to change. If the student engages in a relaxation plan (uses a coping card) after learning of an added responsibility to their job, becoming relaxed is an intrinsic reinforcement. However, the instructor should provide additional verbal or written praise for a job well done. Thin out your reinforcement schedule as the student demonstrates increasing independence in the use of his coping card.
What are some reinforcing consequences you can deliver either immediately following the desired behavior or following a practice session– things that this particular student enjoys, wants, seeks out, etc.?
Are you using labeling and social praise to make the contingency between desired behavior and reinforcing consequence clear to the student?
What reinforcing consequences can you arrange that are more naturally or intrinsically connected to this targeted behavior?