Behavior Chain means a sequence of individual responses where each step produces a cue for the next and the last step delivers reinforcement. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeRBTs break long skills into smaller, teachable steps. Each response leads naturally to the next, so the chain flows. Data are often collected using task analyses to…
Behavior Chain Interruption Strategy (BCIS) means intentionally stopping a learned chain to create opportunities for communication or alternative responses. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeOnce a chain is strong, RBTs may pause before a reinforcing step to encourage a request or new skill. The interruption should be brief, predictable, and paired with teaching opportunities. Examples•…
Behavioral Contrast means a behavior changes in one situation because of reinforcement or punishment applied in another situation. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeContrast shows how behavior in one setting or with one person may increase or decrease when reinforcement contingencies change elsewhere. Examples• A child’s problem behavior decreases in the classroom when reinforced for…
Behavioral Cusp means a behavior that opens access to new environments, reinforcers, or learning opportunities, leading to larger developmental changes. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeRBTs prioritize skills that create the biggest impact, such as communication, mobility, or social interaction. These cusps accelerate learning by expanding what the learner can access. Examples• Learning to walk…
Behavioral Momentum means once a person has started responding, it’s easier to keep responding. High-probability requests can build momentum before harder tasks. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeRBTs often give a series of easy, quick instructions (touch nose, clap hands) before presenting a harder demand. The learner builds success momentum, increasing compliance with the difficult…
Behavioral Skills Training (BST) means a teaching package that includes instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback to teach new skills. Examples
Behavioral Testing means briefly stopping or changing an intervention to see if the effect truly depends on the treatment. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeThis is sometimes used within designs like withdrawal or reversal. The RBT’s role is to follow supervisor instructions carefully and collect consistent data. Common MistakesStopping treatment without clear planning or safeguards,…
Behavioral Variability means the natural differences in how behavior is performed, or deliberately teaching flexibility to adapt to different conditions. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeEncouraging variability prevents rigid responding and promotes creativity, problem-solving, and generalization. RBTs may reinforce new responses or change conditions to expand a skill set.
Behaviorism means the scientific philosophy that explains behavior as a function of environmental influences rather than internal states alone. Application in ABA and RBT PracticeIt frames all ABA procedures: measure observable actions, manipulate environmental variables, and evaluate data to guide practice. Behaviorism does not deny thoughts and feelings but focuses on measurable change. Examples• Analyzing…
Chained Schedule of Reinforcement means two or more schedules happen in sequence, each with its own signal, leading to reinforcement at the end.Examples: complete a math worksheet (FR) → read quietly for 5 minutes (FI) → get a break; finish chores in order before allowance.