HomeBxLogDana Do'sDana Do’s: A Simple Explanation on the Different Types of Simple Discriminations Dana Do’s: A Simple Explanation on the Different Types of Simple Discriminations January 30, 2025 You’ve heard of simple and conditional discriminations. Now let’s talk about simple discriminations, which is commonly thought of as simply— get it?— a three-term contingency: an SD, a correct response, and the consequence that is available in the presence of that SD. There are two variations, a successive discrimination and a simultaneous discrimination. Successive involves discriminating between two different stimuli presented at different times, but successively, like one after the other. One of these stimuli is associated with reinforcement and one is not. It’s like being able to tell the difference between the S-Delta and the SD in any given circumstance. For example, like knowing to cross the street on the “walk” signal, but not on the “don’t walk” signal. Simultaneous involves discriminating between two or more stimuli that are presented at the same time. For example, making the correct choice when asked to touch blue and given a field of different color options. Simple discriminations is three-term contingency— successive, discriminate between two SDs that are not presented at the same time, while simultaneous discriminate between two or more that are presented at the same time. Avoid confusing this with conditional discriminations, which involves a second antecedent stimulus being present for reinforcement to be available, not discriminating between two antecedents, but having two antecedents available. Meaning, a correct response can only contact reinforcement when the SD that signals reinforcement is presented with another antecedent condition. For example, touching the blue square when there is an array of different blue shapes. The two SDs are the color blue and the square shape. The correct answer is conditional (get it?) on both the color blue and the square shape. Two SDs. This is a four-term contingency, two antecedents or SDs, one response, and the reinforcement. The takeaway: successive discriminates between two SDs not presented at the same time. Simultaneous discriminates between two or more SDs that are presented at the same time. Conditional is when two SDs are present, and reinforcement available in the presence of one SD is conditional— oh, I did it again— on the presence of the second SD. Simple. Easy peasy. 6th Edition TCOG. Behavior-Change Procedures G.6 Design and evaluate procedures to produce simple and conditional discriminations. BEPWMini Mocks GSimple DiscriminationsThree term contingency Related Content Dana Do's: Clarifying Confusion Between Derived Stimulus Relation and Stimulus Equivalence PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies confusion to explain derived stimulus relation vs. stimulus equivalence.Dana Do's: Clearing Up the Confusion Over Shaping and Chaining Shaping and chaining are strategies for teaching complex behaviors that are often confused. PTB founder Dana Meller makes the differences clear. Dana Do's: Fun Fact About Using DRA You know how the textbooks say that there are two parts to differential reinforcement, one being reinforcement for the desired behavior and the other extinction for the target behavior? Applying…Variable time A time-based schedule of noncontingent reinforcement delivery. It sets an average amount of time between the delivery of noncontingent reinforcers.Within stimulus prompt A stimulus prompt that helps a learner make a correct discrimination by manipulating a specific physical characteristic of the target stimulus.Withdrawal of a specific positive reinforcer A non-exclusionary time-out procedure where, contingent on challenging behavior, a preferred item is taken away for a certain period of time.Token economy A positive reinforcement procedure in which clients are given tokens (GCSRs) for specific desired behaviors, and the tokens can be exchanged for specific preferred items/activities (backup reinforcers).Time delay prompting A prompting procedure in which the transfer of stimulus control from the prompt to the SD is implemented by delaying the presentation of the prompt following the presentation of the…Total-task chaining A variation of the forward chaining method in which every step of a task analysis is taught in each session. The individual is assisted on any steps that they are…Train loosely A method to program for generalization during instruction that involves broadening the variety of the non-critical aspects of the SD, like the environmental variables (people, locations) that have nothing to…Time-out from positive reinforcement A punishment procedure where access to specific reinforcers is prohibited for a period of time following an occurrence of challenging behavior.Time out ribbon A non-exclusionary time-out procedure in which reinforcement is paired with a ribbon on a child’s wrist to signal the availability of reinforcement. The removal of the ribbon, contingent on challenging…Transitivity Defined as the trained relation of symbolically similar items across two sets of stimuli (i.e., If A=B, and B=C), and without further instruction, the emergence of an untrained connection (i.e.,…Stimulus prompt A type of prompt that increases the salience of the SD and calls an individual’s attention to the stimulus that directs behavior, which is gradually faded out until the correct…Stimulus fading A method of fading stimulus prompts by systematically and gradually lessening or removing them until control of an individual’s behavior transfers to the SD.Stimulus shape transformations A method of fading stimulus prompts by starting with a stimulus that controls the desired response and systematically and gradually changing the shape of that stimulus into the SD that…Successive approximations The gradual and progressive changes in criteria during a shaping procedure, with each change being closer in form to the desired terminal response.Task analysis A breakdown of a complex behavior into small, teachable units that establish a behavior chain (series of steps and tasks presented in a specific order) that must occur in a…Symmetry Defined as the trained relation of symbolically similar items and the demonstration of the relation in reverse without additional direct training. (i.e., If A=B, then B=A)Stimulus equivalence Defined as the untrained acquisition of a reflexive, symmetric, and transitive relation between stimuli that are in some way related.Symbolic matching-to-sample A matching-to-sample procedure where clients are taught to match sample and comparison stimuli that are symbolically related, and not physically identical.Simple discriminations Correct responding that requires discriminating one antecedent stimulus condition (SD) in which the response will produce reinforcement.Shaping A strategy for teaching novel behaviors using successive approximations to a terminal response, which are differentially reinforced until the client is able to differentiate the terminal response from the successive…Shaping across response topographies A shaping method in which each successive approximation varies in form from the other approximations and the ultimate terminal response.Shaping within response topographies A shaping method in which the response form of each successive approximation remains the same, but some other measurable dimension is being trained.Self-management Behavior analytic procedures that target one’s own behavior by defining the desired target response (controlled response), programming behaviors to help evoke that desired target response (controlling response), and arranging reinforcers…Self-monitoring In self-management procedures, this is the process of systematically recording data on one’s own behavior.Self-evaluation In self-management procedures, this is the process of assessing one’s own progress by comparing self-monitoring data to a pre-determined criterion.Self-administered consequences A self-management procedure in which one organizes specific consequences to be delivered following the occurrence or nonoccurrence of one’s own behavior to be delivered by others or by oneself.Self-instruction A self-management procedure that involves providing oneself with verbal instructions (covert or overt) to prompt one’s own desired behaviors.Self-directed systematic desensitization A self-management procedure used to reduce anxieties and phobias that involves substituting muscle relaxation for challenging behaviors. Anxiety or fear-provoking events are ranked on an intensity scale and gradually exposed…Seclusion time-out A type of time-out procedure in which the client is placed in a time-out room for a time period and locked in.Response-deprivation hypothesis (RDH) The belief that any behavior can act as a reinforcer if access to that behavior is restricted. In practice, this occurs when deprivation of a certain activity, achieved by making it…Response-deprivation hypothesis (RDH) The belief that a low-probability behavior can act as a reinforcer to evoke a higher-probability behavior if access to the less-preferred behavior is restricted below baseline levels.Response prompts A temporary antecedent stimulus in the form of verbal instruction, a model, or physical support that is delivered close in time with the relevant SD to help the client engage…Response differentiation The emergence of the target novel behavior produced by differential reinforcement, during a shaping procedure, in which the reinforced members of the desired response class occur more often and the…Self-management (in programming for generalization) A method to program for generalization that involves teaching the client self-management behaviors that will enable them to prompt and reinforce their own target behavior.Response interruption and redirection (RIRD) A positive punishment procedure that involves presenting demands, prompts, or distractions to interrupt and redirect repetitive, stereotypic, and self-injurious behaviors.Restitutional overcorrection A positive punishment overcorrection procedure where, following the occurrence of a challenging behavior, the client is required to repair the damage caused by their behavior,and engage in additional behavior to…Redundancy prompt A stimulus prompt that helps a learner make a correct discrimination by pairing the correct choice with one or more stimulus or response dimensions (e.g., color, size, shape).Response block Physically intervening to interrupt and prevent a response from occurring. Hint: When the behavior is prevented from occurring by the addition of the thing that “blocks” it, it cannot occur…Response cost A loss of a specific amount of reinforcement that is contingent on a challenging behavior.Reprimand A positive punishment procedure that involves providing vocal negative or corrective feedback following the occurrence of an undesirable behavior.Reflexivity Refers to the trained response of matching a stimulus to an identical stimulus and then matching the two stimuli in reverse without additional training. (i.e., If A=A, then A=A)Relational frame theory (RFT) A behavior analytic approach to language which aims to connect and understand the relationship between language and derived stimulus relations. The theory hypothesizes that learned behavior is acquired through a…Premack Principle A strategy that uses behavior as reinforcement by making the opportunity to engage in preferred behavior contingent on engaging in a low-preference behavior.Random rotation A procedure in discrete-trial teaching during which random mastered targets are presented in a randomized order.Program common stimuli A method to program for generalization during instruction that ensures the SDs used in the instructional setting are similar or the same as those used in the generalization setting/natural environment.Ratio strain When challenging behaviors reemerge because of an abruptly thinned reinforcement schedule.Pivotal response training A free-operant teaching methodology that capitalizes on naturally occurring MOs and environmental variables with a specific focus on building skills that produce collateral improvements in other skill areas.Planned ignoring A non-exclusionary time-out procedure where social reinforcers (e.g., attention, engagement in activities) are removed for a period of time contingent on challenging behavior.Positive practice overcorrection A positive punishment overcorrection procedure where, following the occurrence of a challenging behavior, the client is required to repeatedly perform the correct form of the behavior for a certain period…Overcorrection A positive punishment procedure where, contingent on an occurrence of the target behavior, the client is required to engage in an effortful behavior that is directly related to the target…Oddity matching-to-sample A matching-to-sample procedure where clients are taught to match sample and comparison stimuli that are not similar to the sample stimulus (i.e., opposites).Naturally existing contingency A natural consequence (reinforcement or punishment) that follows a behavior without any environmental manipulation by a practitioner.Noncontingent reinforcement (NCR) A contingency independent antecedent intervention during which reinforcers that maintain challenging behavior are delivered on a fixed or variable schedule, thereby abolishing (AO) the motivation for the client to engage…Naturalistic teaching A teaching methodology that involves embedding learning opportunities into ongoing, every day activities by capitalizing on the EOs in natural contexts and choice-making, focusing on client interest and initiations.Multiple exemplar training A method to program for generalization during instruction that involves teaching a variety of response and stimulus options to facilitate the acquisition of untrained responses in the presence of novel…Negative teaching examples A method to program for generalization during instruction that involves teaching the client to generalize and discriminate the settings, times, and conditions in which it is not appropriate to display…Non-exclusionary time out A type of time-out procedure in which the client is kept in the time-in space but is not allowed to participate in time-in activities.Massed practice A self-management procedure that aims to decrease challenging behavior by having an individual engage in the repeated performance of the challenging behavior. Most-to-least prompting A method of prompt fading determined by an individual’s progress that proceeds from the most intrusive/supportive to the least intrusive/supportive as the individual is successful, with the final goal of…Modeling A strategy for teaching new skills by using a live or symbolic model to demonstrate an exact behavior needed to perform a skill and teaching the client to imitate the…Mass trial A procedure in discrete-trial teaching during which the same learning trial (SD) for an acquisition skill is presented several times in a row.Mediation A method to program for generalization during instruction that involves teaching the individuals present in a client’s life (parents, employers) to help maintain and generalize new skills outside of treatment…Response maintenance The extent to which behavior remains in a client’s repertoire over time.Matching-to-sample A conditional discrimination procedure in which a stimulus is presented and taught to match a secondary stimulus. Reinforcement is delivered for correctly matching the two antecedent stimuli. Matches can include…Least-to-most prompting A method of prompt fading for individuals who exhibit the skills necessary to complete the task but are not engaging in the correct response. This method typically starts with the least…Instructions and rules A specific methodology for teaching that includes best practice for setting specific rules, and methods for providing instructions for expected behavior.Inter-trial interval In discrete-trial teaching, this is the period (approximately 5 seconds) that comes between the consequence and the next SD, indicating the end of one trial and the forthcoming trial.Interdependent group contingencies A procedure in which a pre-determined criterion for responding is established for all of the members within a group. For everyone to contact reinforcement, each individual in the group must…Habit reversal A self-management procedure that involves identifying events that precede one’s own challenging behavior and engaging in alternative behaviors when those precursor events occur.High-probability instructional sequence An antecedent intervention used for increasing compliance and reducing escape-maintained behaviors. It involves presenting two-to-five high-probability compliance tasks, reinforcing compliance for those tasks, and then presenting a demand less likely…Graduated guidance A type of response prompt that offers the minimal amount of physical prompting needed to occasion a correct response by having a trainer in a position to prompt immediately (if…Incidental teaching A free-operant teaching methodology that takes place in a free-time setting, during which the child’s natural initiations are treated as learning opportunities to expand on the child’s current skill set.Group contingencies Procedures in which a pre-determined criterion for responding is established for one, some, or all of the members within a group in order for some or all of the group…Independent group contingencies A procedure in which a pre-determined criterion for responding is established for all members of a group, and for an individual to contact reinforcement, that individual must meet the specific…Indiscriminable contingencies A method to program for generalization during instruction that includes the use of intermittent and delayed reinforcement contingencies that parallel natural contingencies.Identity matching-to-sample A matching-to-sample procedure where clients are taught to match sample and comparison stimuli that are physically identical.Functional communication training (FCT) A differential reinforcement procedure that trains an alternative communication response to replace a functionally-equivalent challenging behavior.Forward chaining A chaining method that involves teaching the behavior chain one step at a time, in its naturally occurring order, starting with the first step. The process involves moving on to…Free-operant teaching A teaching methodology in which the SD is part of the natural environment, and responding doesn’t depend on a directive, prompt, or SD presented by a trainer. Appropriate behaviors are…Free-operant behavior A response class that is free to occur and can occur at any time because it is not bound by the control of SDs or prompts.General case analysis A method to program for generalization during instruction that involves teaching the client all the different stimulus variations of a particular SD and the subsequent response variations for those stimuli.Fixed time A time-based schedule of noncontingent reinforcement delivery. It sets a fixed amount of time between the delivery of noncontingent reinforcers.Errorless learning techniques A method for teaching new skills in a way that prevents or minimizes client errors (e.g., prompting, prompt fading, decreasing response effort, etc.) to ensure that the client emits the…Expanded trial A procedure in discrete-trial teaching during which mastered targets are presented as distractors alongside currently targeted SDs.Exclusionary time-out A type of time-out procedure in which the client is removed from the reinforcing (time-in) setting.Existing cache response cost A type of response cost procedure in which challenging behavior results in the removal of previously earned reinforcers.Equivalence-based instruction (EBI) An instructional method based on stimulus equivalence. It maximizes the effectiveness of teaching because a client is directly taught certain targets in such a way that they are able to…Equivalence class A collection of stimuli identified through stimulus equivalence to evoke the same response.Discrimination training A procedure that teaches correct responding by reinforcing responses in the presence of one stimulus condition (the SD), but not in the presence of the other (S∆ ).Discrete-trial teaching (DTT) A structured, table-top, 5-component ABA procedure during which specific skills are broken down into small teachable units and taught to a pre-determined mastery criteria.Differential reinforcement Procedures used to eliminate, reduce, and increase behaviors that involve providing reinforcement for one response class and withholding reinforcement for the occurrence of challenging behavior above or below a pre-determined…Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) A differential reinforcement procedure used to eliminate challenging behaviors. It involves withholding reinforcement for the occurrence of the challenging behavior and providing reinforcement for a specific functionally equivalent alternative behavior.Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) A variation of the differential reinforcement of alternative behavior procedures used to eliminate challenging behaviors. It involves withholding reinforcement for the occurrence of the challenging behavior and providing reinforcement for…Differential negative reinforcement of incompatible or alternative behavior (DNRI & DNRA) A differential reinforcement procedure used to reduce or eliminate challenging behavior that involves withholding negative reinforcement for the occurrence of the challenging behavior and providing negative reinforcement for a functionally…Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) A differential reinforcement procedure in which reinforcement is delivered contingent on the absence/omission of the challenging behavior during a specific time period or moment in time.Differential reinforcement of low rates of responding (DRL) A differential reinforcement procedure that is a variation of basic intermittent schedules of reinforcement. Reinforcement is delivered when an individual engages in a behavior at/or below a pre-established rate during…Differential reinforcement of high rates of responding (DRH) A differential reinforcement procedure that is a variation of basic intermittent schedules of reinforcement. Reinforcement is delivered when an individual engages in a behavior at/or above a pre-established rate during…Differential reinforcement of diminishing rates of responding (DRD) A procedure in which reinforcement is delivered at the end of an interval if the target behavior occurs at a lower than preestablished rate criterion. The rate criteria is gradually…Dependent group contingencies A procedure in which a pre-determined criterion for responding is established for one or a small group of people within a larger group, and for everyone in the larger group…Derived stimulus relations A product of equivalence-based instruction (EBI), wherein responding is defined by forming a relation between two or more stimuli that is not directly trained and not based on the physical…Controlling response In self-management procedures, these are the behaviors that help evoke the desired target behavior.Controlled response In self-management procedures, this is the desired target behavior produced by the self-management procedure.Contrived contingency A reinforcer or punisher that is delivered by a practitioner to evoke changes in behavior or the acquisition of skills.Contingent exercise A positive punishment procedure where a client is required to engage in a physical exercise following the occurrence of a challenging behavior.Contingent observation A non-exclusionary time-out procedure where, contingent on challenging behavior, the client is removed from the instructional setting to another part of the same room to observe the time-in setting while…Contingency dependent intervention Any antecedent intervention that manipulates the availability of reinforcement in the presence of a specific SD and offers differential consequences for correct or new/alternative behaviors versus challenging behaviors.Contingency independent intervention Any antecedent intervention that manipulates motivating operations and changes antecedent events to create an evocative or abative effect on behavior.Conditional discriminations Correct responding that requires discriminating an antecedent stimulus condition (SD) that is conditional on the presence of another antecedent stimulus condition for the response to produce reinforcement.Code’s definition of behavior-change intervention The full set of behavioral procedures designed to improve the client’s wellbeing.Code’s definition of behavioral services Services that are explicitly based on the principles and procedures of behavior analysis and are designed to change behavior in meaningful ways. These services include, but are not limited to,…Code’s definition of client The direct recipient of the behavior analyst’s services. At various times during service provision, one or more stakeholders may simultaneously meet the definition of client (e.g., the point at which…Behavior chain A specific sequence of discrete responses/behaviors that, when linked together, form a terminal behavior. Each discrete response/behavior is associated with a particular stimulus condition (SD), and each response and the…Behavior chain with a limited hold Any behavior chain with the requirement of not only being performed correctly and in order, but also within a specified period of time.Chaining A specific collection of methods that are used to connect a specific sequence of stimuli and responses to form new behaviors.Block trial A procedure in discrete-trial teaching during which different learning trials (SDs) are presented in blocks, which are gradually reduced in size contingent upon correct responding until the stimuli are presented…Behavior trap A method to program for generalization and maintenance during instruction that involves bringing a target behavior under the control of natural reinforcers by exposing the behavior to those reinforcers.Bonus response cost A type of response cost procedure in which additional non-contingent reinforcers are made available and are removed if the challenging behavior occurs.Antecedent-based self-management procedures A variety of procedures used in self-management that manipulate antecedents to increase or decrease one’s own target behaviors.Backup reinforcer Specific preferred items or activities that can be exchanged for the earned tokens delivered in a token economy system.Antecedent intervention Interventions that are implemented prior to and are not contingent on behavior.Backward chaining A chaining method in which an instructor initially completes the chain in its naturally occurring order, and then the individual is taught one step at a time, starting from the…Backward chaining with leap aheads A variation of the backward chain in which any step in the task analysis that is already in the individual’s repertoire is not formally trained.Dana Do's: Considerations for Exam Questions Related to the Use of Punishment Punishment is known to have a quick impact on behavior, but there are ethical implications which makes it very controversial. 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Depending on the source, you can get some conflicting information about DRL vs DRD. PTB co-founder Dana Meller clears up the confusion with a more current look at these two reinforcement procedures. Dana Do's: Chain Chain Chain, Chain, Chain... Which chaining method goes with which behavior? Dana Meller offers some considerations that may help you answer that question on the exam. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section Section G-8: Use chaining. Dana Do's: If All Prompts Prompt Behavior, What's the Difference? If all prompts prompt behavior, how can you tell the different between stimulus and response prompts? PTB co-founder Dana Meller simplifies it with one word. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading).Dana Do's: Which Group Contingency Do I Use? PTB co-founder Dana Meller distills the three different interventions, related by the group. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-18: Use group contingencies.Dana Do's: Relating, Framing and Equating Relating, framing and equating. PTB co-founder Dana Meller drills into the generalizability of relational frame theory, equivalence-based instruction, and stimulus equivalence. Would you believe they all go together? Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-15: Define and provide examples of derived stimulus relations; G-21: Use procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization; G-12: Use equivalence-based instruction. Dana Do's: What Chaining Method to Use When? The books don't really say much about what chaining methods BCBA's should apply to what behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks it down. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.Dana Do's: How to Get Unstuck When Studying for the BCBA® PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains how to use Multiple Exemplar training to improve your exam application skills. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section: G-21 Use procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.Dana Do's: Response Blocking vs. Extinction Want an easy way to make the correct discrimination between response blocking and extinction? PTB co-founder Dana Meller borrows from the #starwars universe to help explain. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section: G-16 Use positive and negative punishment (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).Dana Do's: Need a Prompt to Understand Prompting? PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a trick for discriminating between response and stimulus prompts. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading)Dana Do's: 1-Minute Experimental Design Test Hack (you still have to study it though) PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a huge secret to help break down experimental design questions. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section D-3: Identify the defining features of single-subject experimental designs.PTB's Special ABA Sauce: Mastering the ABCs of Behavior Test your understanding of the ABCs of Behavior with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she analyzes a tasty scenario to identify the MO, SD, prompt, behavior, and consequence using PTB's special ABC breakdown method. Discover how ordering extra sauce serves as a perfect example to unravel the intricate relationship between MOs, deprivation, SDs, and reinforcement. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-1: Define and provide examples of behavior, response, and response class, B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control, B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations and G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading).Dana Do’s: A Simple Explanation on the Different Types of Simple Discriminations PTB founder Dana Meller makes it simple with an explainer on the types of simple discriminations and important differences to keep in mind.Dana Do's: Radical Behaviorism's Origin Story If you too are confused about radical behaviorism, then this is for you. PTB founder Dana Meller explains behaviorism, with a twist.Dana Do's: Key Words to Watch For on the Big Exam PTB founder Dana Meller shares some key words to watch for when breaking down test questions around compound schedules on the BCBA®/BCaBA® exam.Dana Do's: Confused About Extinction and Negative Punishment? PTB founder Dana Meller clears up the common confusion between extinction and negative punishment.Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Between Extraneous and Confounding Variables Extraneous and confounding variables are the same, but different. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: How to Use the Ethics Code to Help Answer Questions on the BCBA® Exam PTB founder Dana Meller illustrates how using the ethics Code can help BCBA/BCaBA exam candidates identify the correct answer on exam questions.Dana Do's: How to Determine Preference of Tested Stimuli How do you determine the relative preference of tested stimuli during trial-based preference assessments? PTB Founder Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: Socially Significant Information Social significance is such a buzzword ABA. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down all the different areas in which social significance is important. Dana Do's: The Distinction Between Analysis Types and Experimental Designs What’s the difference between parametric, component, and comparative analyses? And what do experimental designs have to do with it? PTB founder Dana Meller clears up the confusion with a deep dive into analysis variations.Dana Do's: How to Prepare for the Transition to the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline With the 6th Edition transition weeks away, many BCBA®/BCaBA® exam candidates are uncertain about how to best prepare. PTB founder Dana Meller is here with advice on how 5th Ed. students can plan to Beat the Odds and navigate the new 6th Ed. Test Content Outline (TCO).Big Exam Prep Workshop PTB’s Big Exam Prep Workshop is a live, interactive 6-week intensive (with up to 14 weeks of access to online materials, subject to registration). Integrating behavior analytic strategies, this hands-on masterclass breaks down the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline, harnessing PTB’s signature formula for organizing and structuring BCBA® exam prep. Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Continuous and Discontinuous Measurement? It’s all too easy to mix up continuous and discontinuous measurement procedures. Need some help discriminating between the two? Get clarity with help from PTB founder Dana Meller.You Got This: 5 Tips to Build Up Your Test-Taking Confidence Exam day can shake even the most self-assured candidate but it’s important to feel secure in yourself and your skills. Looking to up your confidence before sitting for the Big…Dana Do's: Tips for Test Questions About Functional Analysis Tripped up trying to make correct discriminations when it comes to functional analysis? PTB founder Dana Meller has some tips to help you answer those tricky exam questions. Dana Do's: Six Direct Assessment Methods Looking to review direct assessment methods? PTB founder Dana Meller gets right to it with this quick explainer.Dana Do's: Exploring the Forms and Functions of Noncontingent Reinforcements (NCR) Let’s talk contingency independent antecedent intervention… Or, in simpler terms, NCR. Get the scoop on this non-invasive procedure with a quick explainer from PTB founder Dana Meller.Dana Do's: What to Do the Night Before the Big Exam It’s the night before your exam. What should you be doing? Well, first off, nobody knows you better than you know yourself. But since you asked, because someone did ask,…Dana Do's: Exploring the Four Types of Reinforcer Assessments PTB founder Dana Meller discusses reinforcer assessments, which should not be confused with stimulus preference assessments.Five Ways to Help Offset the Cost of Certification There’s no way around it, becoming a certified BCBA® is an investment. Not only is the exam itself costly but expenses on the path to certification can quickly add up,…The 5 Elements of an Effective Study Plan If you’re on the path to the BCBA®/BCaBA® exam and looking to get a plan in place, look no further. PTB has five tips to help you devise an effective…7 Tips for Maximizing Test Prep #1: Focus on Form Be sure to get the right resources and materials. Having up-to-date books and academic literature will ensure you’re studying the right stuff. Ready for mock exams…Dana Do's: Nine Considerations for Prioritizing Target Behaviors PTB founder breaks down each of the nine considerations for prioritizing target behaviors.Dana Do's: Extinguished Behaviors Resurge When reinforcement for the alternative replacement behavior is discontinued, extinction for the alternative behavior can resurge. The BACB® 6th Edition: Assessing All the Upcoming Changes It’s been more than two years since the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, BACB®, announced their 6th Edition updates. Now, as January 2025 inches closer, students, universities, and Applied Behavior Analysis…Rest Assured: Four Tips for Better Sleep Before the Big Exam Sleep… You need it. You love it. If you’re studying for the BCBA® exam, you probably feel like you need more of it. Staying well-rested on your journey is essential,…Dana Do's: 7 Steps of Evidence-Based Supervision PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies the specific steps for evidence-based supervision, not to be confused with behavior skills training. 6 Science-Backed Tips for Improving Your Memory The first part of those all-important MAC skills: memorization. Being able to recall information, facts, concepts, and terms is essential (that probably goes without saying). If you find your memory…Dana Do's: All the Validities in ABA, Explained PTB founder Dana Meller helps connect each of the validities to the validity of this explanation.Dana Do's: Will Reinforcer Assessments be on the BCBA® Exam? The Task List and the TCO (Test Content Outline) both include preference assessments. But, they don't mention reinforcer assessments. Does that mean that reinforcer assessments will not be on the exam? ABA in Your Day-to-Day: Products That Use the Power of Behavior Principles The principles behind Behavior Analysis (ABA) are everywhere– if you know what to look for. It probably wouldn’t surprise a BCBA (or future BCBA) to know that ABA inspires everyday…Dana Do's: The ABCs of Breaking Down BCBA® Exam Test Questions If you need help breaking down test questions, there's a simple tool you can use to eliminate the risk of making assumptions on the BCBA® exam. Dana Do's: Has Your Coursework Left You Unprepared for the BCBA® Exam? If your coursework left you unprepared for the BCBA exam, PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some ideas of how to avoid the hamster wheel of multiple exam retakes.Beat the Odds: 5 Tips You Need If You’re Retaking the Exam Retaking the exam? You’re in good company. In fact, PTB conducted a study of BCBA® exam candidates in 2023 that showed more than ⅓ of test-takers are in fact retakers.…Dana Do's: What Should I Do If I Don't Pass the BCBA® Exam? If you're retaking the exam and you don't know how to proceed with studying again, PTB co-founder Dana Meller has some suggestions that you might want to consider. Dana Do's: Why BCBA® Exam Retakers Should Ignore the Score Report PTB's retaker philosophy has not changed since we first began BCBA® test prep, 12 years ago. In fact, the philosophy has only been reinforced over the years as retaker pass rates continue to drop. If you're retaking the exam, you need to hear this advise from PTB co-founder Dana Meller.3.14 Tips to Make Exam Prep as Easy as Pi #1: Set Specific (And Smaller) Goals Setting goals when developing a study strategy is important, but even more important is setting goals that are rational, realistic, and manageable. Setting too…Dana Do's: How to Discriminate What 'Is' or 'Is Not' Behavior in BCBA® Exam Questions There is a struggle with identifying what is or is not a behavior when it comes to BCBA® exam questions. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some simple yet critical ways to make those discriminations.Dana Do's: Do Alternative Behaviors Need to be Functionally Equivalent? Do alternative behaviors always have to be functionally equivalent to the target behavior that we're trying to reduce or eliminate? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks in down.Dana Do's: And Just Like That, Context and Application for Task List Items How does going to ABA conferences help you pass the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller recalls her student journey and the "a-ha moment" when she realized, attending forced her to generalize what she was studying, in context. Suddenly, ABA terminology was no longer a foreign language she was trying to master.Dana Do's: How to Determine Value vs. Behavior Altering Effect A motivating operation is not a thing that you hold in your hand. It is the state or condition of being deprived of something or satiated with something. PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the in-the-moment effects to help explain the difference.PTB Partner Spotlight: In Conversation with APBA’s CEO, Dr. Tyra Sellers An industry veteran who watched the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) grow into what it is today, Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D joined the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) in January 2023 as CEO. Her first ABA certification came before the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) even existed. Some years later, as fate would have it, Sellers found herself at the BACB, serving as the director of the ethics department. Now, she is bringing her knowledge and experience to the distinguished organization with a strategy that is focused on access, education and community.Dana Do's: Cracking the Ethics Code on Consent vs. Assent The ethics code asks behavior analysts to obtain informed consent before starting a treatment plan. But…what does that entail? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks down informed consent, assent, and the ethics elements you need to know. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Code Section E- 2.11 Obtaining Informed ConsentDana Do's: Discriminating Between Masking and Overshadowing PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers detailed examples to help students better discriminate between two often confusing concepts: masking vs. overshadowing.Dana Do's: Confused About Automatic and Socially Mediated Reinforcement? It’s not wrong to associate sterotypic behaviors with automatic reinforcement— but there are other factors to consider. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a quick explainer to clear up the confusion. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-7: Define and provide examples of automatic and socially mediated contingencies.Dana Do's: Fun Fact. The Process of Self-Management Requires Two Behaviors Self-management: one process, two behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains controlled vs controlling response, and shares real-life examples of how they are used together in self-management strategies. The Path(s) to Becoming a BCBA® Currently, there are four paths to meet the eligibility requirements, though it’s important to note that the BACB® will be revising the pathways in 2027.What Is a BCBA® Certification and Why Get One? The Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam (or, BCBA® exam) is a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB).Beat the Odds: Factors that Impact Performance on the BCBA® Exam Though the exam may be difficult, it’s not impossible to achieve a passing score. There are several ways students can improve their chances and beat the odds. The right preparation is essential.How Hard is it to Pass the BCBA® Exam? The question every future BCBA® inevitably asks: how hard is it to pass the BCBA® exam? If you’ve heard the stories or seen the data, then you know the exam has a reputation for being difficult. Ask around and you’ll likely hear that it’s sort of like running a marathon. But barefoot, on broken glass, in a giant corn maze, guarded by storm troopers and you can’t remember where you left your lightsaber…oh, and your headphones just died. Dana Do's: What Do Philosophical Assumptions Got To Do With It? It often feels like the board is asking candidates to study concepts you may never use in practice. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains why that's actually inaccurate. The philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis is so much more integral than just passing the big exam.10 Positive Effects From Prioritizing Self-Care Self-care. It’s a bit of a broad term, and a total buzzword these days. It’s often used in the context of bubble baths and “unplugging.” But, at its core, self-care is about more than just “me-time.” It’s about taking care of yourself in a way that works best for you and your lifestyle. 5 Ways to Make the Big Exam Feel Less Scary #1: Arm Yourself (With Knowledge) As they say, knowledge is power, and the best defense on exam day is knowing your stuff. It’s ok to reschedule if you’re not ready.…Dana Do's: Feeling Isolated on ABA Island The life of a behavior professional can be rewarding, but it can also be a little lonely. PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares her experience with overcoming isolation with some recommendations for students and current BCBAs.Desk Yoga: 7 Stretches for Your Next Study Session Long days and even longer study sessions, can leave your back and neck feeling stiff. Luckily, PTB has just the thing: 7 desk-friendly, do-anywhere yoga moves. While it can’t replace your regular yoga routine, these stretches can help you reset your mind and body when you’re glued to your desk (or couch, or kitchen chair). 5 Science-Backed Tips to Make Your Study Space More Soothing #1 – Declutter to De-stress Fortunately, this first tip costs nothing. Unfortunately, it may require a bit of elbow grease. Organizing your study or work station can help you better…Keep Calm and Study On: 6 Strategies for Managing Test Prep Stress It goes without saying that studying for the BCBA® exam is stressful. The experience can fray the nerves of even the most level-headed student. If you’re feeling the test prep…From PTB’s Test (Prep) Kitchens: A Brain-Boosting Berry Smoothie It’s important to fuel your brain and body with nutritious food that will give you the energy to power through long days and even longer study sessions. But, between school,…Behind the Scenes of the Big Exam Prep Workshop Known for her trademark humor and clinical knowledge, PTB co-founder Dana Meller takes students behind the scenes of creating the PTB Streaming Lecture Series, a collection of 9 pre-recorded lectures covering each of the BCBA® 5th edition task list sections.Dana Do's: What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor? PTB co-founder Dana Meller identifies the markers of being a good supervisor. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section I-8: Evaluate the effects of supervision (e.g., on client outcomes, on supervisee repertoires). Dana Do's: Yes, verbs are clues that can help you prep for the BCBA exam PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how the verbs used in the Task List can provide you with significant clues for effective studying. By examining task list verbs, you can actually determine the specific type of discrimination required in your studies. Learn how understanding these verbs can guide your preparation and better equip you for success on the big exam.5 Test-Taking Tips to Help You Pass the BCBA® Exam Prep the Night Before Pack up everything you’ll need for exam day the night before so you won’t need to worry about it the day of. Are you wearing comfortable…6 Science-Backed Study Tips for Your Next Study Session Switch Up Your Environment Studying in a new environment has been shown to help improve memory and concentration levels. Try studying at a coffee shop, library, or a new spot…Add to Cart: PTB’s Study Essentials When it comes to test-prep, you need the right tools for the job. PTB has compiled a must-have list of study supplies so you can stock up on your next…Dana Do's: How to Decode the Code PTB co-founder Dana Meller suggests that memorizing the sections of the BACB® Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts will in fact help you make correct discriminations when prepping for the BCBA® exam. Dana Do's: Why BCBA® Retaker Odds are Lower There's a danger of studying only the score report. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers insight on why it's important to study like a test virgin.Dana Do's: That Feeling of Freaking Out Over the BCBA® Exam Everyone feels like they won't pass the BCBA® exam, not just you. PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about the experiences her students share as they prep for the exam. And surprise surprise, you are not alone in feeling scared, dealing with the pressures of everyday life, and trying to negotiate so many variables. If that's you and you're struggling, the good news is that it's temporary. And the payoff, that is fantastic.Dana Do's: Imagine the Task List is a Jigsaw Puzzle PTB cofounder, Dana Meller treats the task list like a puzzle, and so should you. Like a puzzle, all the task list items are interconnected. To be exam ready, you need all the pieces, and every piece needs to be in place. Dana Do's: Looking at the World Behavior Analytically Why should you look at the world behavior analytically? Because it will help you build ABA fluency.Dana Do's: How to Optimize Memorization PTB Co-founder Dana Meller reinforces the importance of memorization and offers some practical, empirically validated tips for memorizing the task list.Dana Do's: Get Your M.A.C. Skills Together PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a key to building fluency and BCBA® exam readiness. Memorization. Application. Comprehension. Dana Do's: Dealing with the Frustration of Failing the BCBA® Exam PTB cofounder Dana Meller offers some unsolicited advice for candidates who have experienced the frustration of failing the BCBA® exam by only a few points. Dana Do's: Why You're Not Passing the BCBA® Exam PTB cofounder Dana Meller helps candidates retaking the exam consider a functional approach to defining the obstacles holding them back. Dana Do's: Short Cuts Don't Work PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about avoiding shortcuts in your exam prep. Becoming a BCBA® is not just about passing the Big Exam, it is about taking on a professional identity. Dana Do's: The Importance of Speaking ABA PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares the importance of speaking ABA and being able to fluently read and understand the Cooper text in order to pass the big exam.Dana Do's: Understanding the ABC's of Behavior Used to Break Down Test Questions PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how our ABA superpowers can be used to break down exam questions to organize BCBA® exam prep.Dana Do's: Put On Your BACB® Board Hat Want to know what to study for the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller reminds candidates that the exam is a knowledge assessment, not a skill assessment.Dana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Studying Tips PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives. Dana Do's: Use Mistakes to Assess How You Test PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares insights on how to use your mock BCBA® exam mistakes to assess and improve your test-taking behavior.
