Behaviors, Responses, and Response Classes in ABA In the realm of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), several foundational concepts and principles play a crucial role in understanding and shaping behavior. Among these core concepts are Behavior, Response, and Response Class. In this blog post, we will explore these concepts and explore their significance within the field […]
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Why Should Data Be Valid, Accurate, and Reliable? Behavior change is data driven. Decisions should be made based on what the data indicate after measurement has occurred by either the BCBA or the RBT. It is crucial that data be accurate, valid, and reliable, or we run the risk of making decisions based on incorrect
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Derived Stimulus Relations (B15) | BCBA® Task List Study Guide Derived stimulus relations, often associated with relational frame theory, encompass the concepts of reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity. While these topics can be complex, we can simplify them by relating them to matching-to-sample procedures. By understanding these three terms, we can delve into the formation of
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What is Radical Behaviorism? Radical behaviorism, pioneered by B.F. Skinner, represents an extension of methodological behaviorism, which was spearheaded by John Watson. Radical behaviorism is the study of both observable behavior and private events such as thoughts and feelings. Radical behaviorism recognizes that our interactions with the environment are influenced not only by external factors
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Every behavior has a purpose, or function. The four functions of behavior are: to get something, to get rid of something, to get attention, and to communicate. Many times, a behavior serves more than one of these functions. For example, a child may whine to get their parent’s attention and also to get a toy that they want.
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What is Stimulus Control? Stimulus control refers to behavior that occurs more often in the presence of a stimulus than in its absence. Stimulus control occurs when the rate, latency, duration, or magnitude of a response is altered in the presence of an antecedent stimuli. Drivers stop in the presence of stop signs, children act
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What to do first when preparing for the BCBA Exam Congratulations! You’ve done the hard part. You’ve passed your classes, collected your supervision hours, and you are now ready to study for, and pass, the BCBA exam. I know, I know, this might sound like an impossible task to some of you. We’ve all heard
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What are Stimulus Classes and Response Classes? It’s important to understand the distinction between what a stimulus class is and what a response class is in applied behavior analysis. A stimulus is any change in the environment. A stimulus class is defined as a group of antecedent stimuli that have a similar effect on responses
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What are the Characteristics of Single Subject Experimental Designs? Single-subject designs are the staple of applied behavior analysis research. Those preparing for the BCBA exam or the BCaBA exam must know single subject terms and definitions. When choosing a single-subject experimental design, ABA researchers are looking for certain characteristics that fit their study. First, individuals
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Conditioned Motivating Operations in ABA Conditioned motivating operations (CMOs) are motivating operations that are established through learning history. CMOs are just like unconditioned motivating operations (UMOs) except UMOs do not require learning. In ABA, motivating operations alter the value of consequences while evoking or abating behavior typically due to deprivation or satiation. Motivating operations are
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What is Positive and Negative Punishment? Positive and negative punishment are typically used as a last resort, or for dangerous behaviors, in applied behavior analysis. However, punishment can be an effective tool in any situation when used properly. BCBAs and BCaBAs must know how to use overcorrection, response cost, and time-out properly and effectively to
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Verbal Behavior and Verbal Operants on the BCBA Exam B.F. Skinner introduced his definitions of verbal operants and verbal behavior in his famous book “Verbal Behavior.” Verbal behavior is socially mediated and reinforced by another person’s behavior. In Applied Behavior Analysis, verbal operants are the primary focus of verbal behavior. These operants include: mands, tacts,
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