dpryl,
Thanks for these suggestions. For the cyclic application, I have followed the steps outlined in 3.1.1 and ensured that I take into account that the displacement increments are properly applying and removing the displacements.
As for a modeled frame, I currently have elastic plates on the specimen for displacement application, but the displacement increments are applied to each side of the model during the positive and negative cycles, so the model is only ever "pushed". I have tried moving both sides of the wall at once as well, as you mentioned to avoid inducing tension when switching loading directions, though this as little effect on the monotonic results and has not solved the cyclic issues.
From my analysis, it seems that the material model as I have it defined, especially for the specimens with higher concrete strength, is not developing the diagonal compression strut up from the leading toe of the wall.
I will look into sharing the models that demonstrate my point per Troubleshooting 2.1.1., unless you have other suggestions.