A Systematic Review of the Impact of Derived Relational Responding Technology in Raising Intelligence Scores

The current review summarizes the literature on the impact of derived relational responding (DRR) technology on raising intelligence scores. We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies in PsycINFO, ERIC, and Web of Science between 1985 and 2021. Fourteen publications involving 15 experiments were identified. For studies meeting inclusion criteria, information was extracted on participant characteristics, design, settings, assessments conducted, intervention protocol and trained relations, mean intelligence quotient (IQ) scores before and after training, and outcomes. We assessed risk of bias using a revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB2), the Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I), and the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC). Overall, the results suggest that interventions using DRR procedures improve intelligence scores regardless of initial participant ability, diagnosis, or age level. Furthermore, eight of the reviewed studies used the Strengthening Mental Abilities with Relational Training (SMART), whereas two studies implemented the Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK) protocol. Additional training procedures were identified, for example, multiple-exemplar training, fluency training, and relational flexibility training. The quality assessment showed high risk for seven randomized controlled trials, and low to moderate risk for five nonrandomized trials. Three studies used a type of single case design; one study meets standards according to the WWC protocol. The limitations and future directions are discussed.