Dana Do’s: How to Tell the Difference Between Applied and Effective Dimensions on BCBA®/BCaBA Exam Questions

If you’re preparing for the BCBA® or BCaBA® exam, don’t underestimate the importance of the seven dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These aren’t just definitions to memorize—they are the foundation of everything behavior analysts do.

One area many exam candidates struggle with is discriminating between the “applied” and “effective” dimensions. The confusion often stems from the fact that both emphasize social significance, but they refer to different stages of intervention.

The applied dimension focuses on selecting and prioritizing socially significant target behaviors—those that are meaningful to the individual and their environment. These behaviors directly impact quality of life and typically occur in natural settings like home, school, or the community. Examples include increasing communication, reducing dangerous behaviors, or promoting independence.

In test questions, if you’re being asked about behavior selection, relevance to real-world contexts, or socially significant goals, you’re likely dealing with the applied dimension.

The effective dimension assesses whether the intervention produced meaningful change. After targeting socially significant behaviors and applying a treatment, the behavior analyst must evaluate the outcomes. Did the intervention result in a measurable, socially significant improvement in the individual’s life?

This dimension is all about results— and it can only be evaluated after treatment has been implemented. On exam questions, effective is often tied to evaluating outcomes, data trends, or assessing whether the change made a real difference.

  • Applied = Socially significant target behaviors (what you choose to change).
  • Effective = Socially significant outcomes (whether your intervention worked).

Understanding these differences is crucial for answering scenario-based exam questions correctly. Don’t just memorize the dimensions—connect them to the BACB® (TCO) Domains and use real-world examples to solidify your understanding.

6th Edition TCO
  • A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations  
  • A.5 Identify and describe dimensions of applied behavior analysis.  
  • 7 Dimensions
  • Applied
  • BEPW
  • Effective
  • MiniBig A & B
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    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).
  • 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.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.
  • 4 Paths to Becoming a BCBA®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. 
  • 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
    Preparing for the BCBA® exam can be daunting, but with these five tips, you can ease the stress. From studying smart to planning for the unexpected, these strategies will help you feel confident and ready on exam day.
  • Feeling isolated on ABA islandDana 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). 
  • Five tips to make your study space more soothing5 Science-Backed Tips to Make Your Study Space More Soothing
    Transform your study space into a soothing environment with these five science-backed tips.
  • 6 Stress Tips for Managing BCBA® Exam PrepKeep 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 pressure, not to worry, PTB is here with six tips for managing stress while studying.
  • 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.
  • What chaining methods to use on what behaviors.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.
  • Go behind the scenes with PTB co-founder Dana Meller for the making of the PTB Streaming Lecture Series.Behind the Scenes of the PTB Streaming Lecture Series
    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 BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline.
  • What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor?Dana Do's: What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor?
    PTB founder Dana Meller identifies the markers of being a good supervisor.
  • By examining BACB Task List verbs, you can actually determine the specific type of discrimination required in your BCBA exam studies.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 Test Content Outline can provide you with significant clues for effective studying. By examining TCO 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 
    Prepare for success on exam day with these five tips.
  • 6 Science-Backed Study Tips for Your Next Study Session
    From switching up your study environment to quizzing yourself, these strategies will help improve focus, memory, and retention on the exam.
  • PTB Study Essentials for BCBA® exam prepAdd 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…
  • How to decode the BACB® ethics code.Dana Do's: How to Decode the BACB® Ethics Code on Exam Questions
    PTB 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.
  • Why Retaker Odds Are LowerDana Do's: Why BCBA® and BCaBA® Retaker Odds are Lower
    There's a danger of studying only the score report. PTB founder Dana Meller offers insight on why it's important to study like a test virgin.
  • Freaking Out Over the BCBA® ExamDana 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.
  • The Task List is a Jigsaw PuzzleDana Do's: Imagine the Test Content Outline is a Jigsaw Puzzle
    PTB founder, Dana Meller treats the Test Content Outline like a puzzle, and so should you. All the domain items are interconnected. To be exam ready, you need all the pieces, and every piece needs to be in place.
  • Look at the World Behavior AnalyticallyDana 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.
  • Memorization, application and comprehension are key to building fluency.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.
  • Dealing with the Frustration of Missing the BCBA® Passing Score by a Few PointsDana Do's: Dealing with the Frustration of Failing the BCBA® Exam
    PTB founder Dana Meller offers some unsolicited advice for candidates who have experienced the frustration of failing the BCBA® exam by only a few points.
  • Why You're Not Passing the BCBA® ExamDana 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.
  • Shortcuts to BCBA® exam prep don't workDana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Short Cuts Don't Work
    PTB 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.
  • Why its Important to Speak ABADana 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.
  • The ABC's of ABADana Do's: Understanding the ABC's of Behavior Used to Break Down Test Questions
    PTB founder Dana Meller shares how our ABA superpowers can be used to break down exam questions to organize BCBA® exam prep.
  • Put On Your BACB® Board HatDana 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.
  • Advice for juggling life with exam prep.Dana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Studying Tips
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives.
  • Use your BCBA® mock exam mistakes to assess how you test.Dana Do's: Use Mistakes to Assess How You Test
    PTB founder Dana Meller shares insights on how to use your mock BCBA® exam mistakes to assess and improve your test-taking behavior.
  • How do you discriminate between operant behavior and respondent behavior on test questions? PTB founder Dana Meller shows you the ABC of it.Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Between Operant Behavior and Respondent Behavior on BCBA® Exam Questions
    How do you discriminate between operant behavior and respondent behavior on test questions? PTB founder Dana Meller shows you the ABC of it.
  • A type of conditioned motivating operation that is established when a previously neutral stimulus acquires its evocative and value-altering effect by having been paired with an unconditioned motivating operation.Surrogate MO (CMO-S)
    A type of conditioned motivating operation that is established when a previously neutral stimulus acquires its evocative and value-altering effect by having been paired with an unconditioned motivating operation.
  • When a behavior is learned and directly controlled by the consequences that follow it.Contingency-shaped behavior
    When a behavior is learned and directly controlled by the consequences that follow it.
  • Chained and tandem schedules are both compound schedules. They require correct responding that must also occur in a specific order for reinforcement to be delivered. But that may not be as easy as it sounds. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains. Refer to the 5th Edition Task List Section B-5 Define and provide examples of schedules of reinforcement.Dana Do's: Chained Versus Tandem Schedules Explained
    Chained and tandem schedules are both compound schedules. They require correct responding that must also occur in a specific order for reinforcement to be delivered. But that may not be as easy as it sounds.
  • What is the difference between these two natural human behavior phenomena, rooted in consequences? Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: Confused by Matching Law and Behavioral Contrast in ABA?
    What is the difference between these two natural human behavior phenomena, rooted in consequences? Dana Meller breaks it down.
  • There are two very important defining features of verbal behavior: point-to-point correspondence and formal similarity. Dana Meller breaks down the four of six elementary verbal operants involved.Dana Do's: The Defining Features of Verbal Behavior, Explained
    There are two very important defining features of verbal behavior: point-to-point correspondence and formal similarity. Dana Meller breaks down the four of six elementary verbal operants involved.
  • How are MOs the same, but different? PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains.Dana Do's: Compare and Contrast MOs and SDs
    MOs and SDs do share some similarities, but there are some key differences to note. PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks it all down to help you discriminate between MOs, SDs, and how they work together. Refer to 5th Edition Task List Sections B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control, and B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations.
  • Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Formal and Feature Stimulus Class?
    The difference between formal and feature stimulus class is something that has caused many students a great deal of confusion. That is because they seem the same, unless you look closely and realize they are not. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains. Refer to 5th Edition Task List Section B-2: Define and provide examples of stimulus and stimulus class.
  • Dana Do's: Get to the 'Root' of Response vs. Stimulus Generalization
    Branching out, PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares the latest from her "tree" of knowledge to help discriminate between response and stimulus generalization (puns intended).
  • Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Between Response Blocking and Extinction
    What are the key differences between these these two procedures? PTB co-founder Dana Meller distills the concepts with common and relatable examples we can identify with. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-9: Define and provide examples of operant extinction; and B-6: Define and provide examples of positive and negative punishment contingencies.
  • How do you know if your BCBA® study activities are effective?Dana Do's: How to Know if Your Study Activities are Effective
    How do you know if your BCBA® study activities are effective? PTB founder Dana Meller shares some key analysis that may help BCBA® exam candidates assess efficacy.
  • Caution Using BCBA Exam as a MockDana Do's: Careful About Getting Creative With Mock Exams
    PTB co-founder cautions candidates about using the actual BCBA® exam as a mock exam, listing all the reasons why you might want to reconsider getting creative with your mock exam prep experience.
  • Dana Do's. Warning. Watch out for extremes.Dana Do's: Warning. Be Careful of Extremes.
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller sends an important warning for test takers. Watch out for extremes in exam questions and answer options.
  • Dana Do's: Are mock exams an accurate predictor of test performance?Dana Do's: How to Use Mock Exams in Your Study Plan
    I was recently asked if mock exams are useful in predicting how someone will do on the actual big exam. And, is repeating the same mock exam an effective study…
  • Dana Do's: GeneralizationDana 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: How to Discriminate Between MOs and SDsDana Do's: How to Discriminate Between SDs & MOs
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks down the distinction between motivating operations (MOs) and discriminative stimulus (SDs). Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control; and B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Motivating OperationTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Motivating Operation Example Explained
    Test your concepts and principles knowledge with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews a question about identifying the specific motivating operation described in the scenario. Included is a breakdown of the two components, or effects, that operate underneath the MO umbrella.
  • The Pioneer of Methodological BehaviorismThe Pioneer of Methodological Behaviorism
    What are the historical origins of Methodological Behaviorism? Learn about observable behavior and John Broadus Watson's controversial "Little Albert Experiment." Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-4: Distinguish among behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and professional practice guided by the science of behavior analysis.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Not All Conditioned Reinforcers Are Created EqualBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Not All Conditioned Reinforcers Are Created Equal
    Let's understand the concept and versatility of Generalized Conditioned Reinforcers (GCSRs) and their crucial role in behavior management. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-8: Define and provide examples of unconditioned, conditioned, and generalized reinforcers and punishers and G-3: Establish and use conditioned reinforcers.
  • Understanding Operant and Respondent ConditioningDana's Do's: Conditioning Us to Understand Operant and Respondent Conditioning?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains how one word can describe two different things. Here's how to practically understand the difference between operant and respondent conditioning. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-3: Define and provide examples of respondent and operant conditioning.
  • MiniBig
     

    PTB MiniBig: Fast, Flexible, and Focused Exam Prep

    The PTB MiniBig enables BCBA® exam prep candidates to tailor their study needs by popping in on single sessions of the intensive PTB Big Exam Prep Workshop. Each 3.5-hour session, focused on specific sections of the Task List, includes a mock exam followed by real-time, live, interactive feedback and access to live session replays, without committing to the full workshop.
  • Dana's Do's: WWSD (What Would Skinner Do?) on Tax DayDana's Do's: WWSD (What Would #Skinner Do?) on Tax Day?
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller illustrates a perfect example of rule-governed behavior centered on our shared and dreaded annual Tax Day obligation. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-13: Define and provide examples of rule-governed and contingency-shaped behavior.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Operant Conditioning that Automatically OccursTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Operant Conditioning that Automatically Occurs
    Let's clarify the concept of automaticity of reinforcement and punishment, and its distinction from automatic reinforcement. With a relatable example, PTB founder Dana explains how an individual's behavior can be influenced without consciously knowing the reasons behind their actions.
  • Influencing Behavior Without Direct Pairing ExplainedInfluencing Behavior Without Direct Pairing, Explained
    Learn about an interesting phenomenon related to verbal cues motivating individuals without tangible reinforcement. PTB founder Dana Meller also shares an example of research conducted with little kids.
  • Put Your #ABA Knowledge to the Test: Identifying the Attitude of SciencePut Your ABA Knowledge to the Test ➠ Identifying the Attitude of Science
    Test your ABA terminology knowledge. PTB co-founder Dana Meller discusses one of the six attitudes of science that focuses on data-based decision-making, explaining how this attitude emphasizes our reliance on facts and objective quantification. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-2: Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Verbal OperantsTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Select the Correct Elementary Verbal Operant
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller reviews verbal behavior, and explains which of the six elementary verbal operants is controlled by a written verbal Sᴰ, and also shares point-to-point correspondence. Included is a comparison of the different Sᴰ(s) that control(s) each elementary verbal operant. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-14: Define and provide examples of the verbal operants.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Who Wants to Learn More About Elementary Verbal Operants?Breaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Who Wants to Learn More About Elementary Verbal Operants?
    Let's break down a BCBA® exam mocj question about verbal behavior, focusing on one of the elementary verbal operants - the intraverbal. PTB co-founder Dana Meller clarifies the differences between the intraverbal and other verbal operants, providing a comprehensive understanding of each category. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-14: Define and provide examples of the verbal operants.
  • Breaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: The Best Example of a Behavior.Breaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: The Best Example of a Behavior
    Test your concepts and principles knowledge. PTB founder Dana Meller reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about identifying the best example of a behavior. Included is a detailed breakdown of various options that could be helpful when approaching this type of question on the big ABA exam.
  • Let's break down a BCBA® mock exam question.Let's Break Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Hypothesize the Function of Disruptive Behavior in Circle Time
    PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down a BCBA® mock exam question, exploring various possibilities to better understand the reasons behind the behavior in this scenario.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Master Your Understanding of Autoclitic Verbal BehaviorTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Master Your Understanding of Autoclitic Verbal Behavior
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller discusses the complexities of autoclitics and their role in effective communication. Enhance your understanding of this secondary verbal operant as Dana presents real-life examples of autoclitics and their significance, particularly for individuals with social disabilities. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-14: Define and provide examples of the verbal operants.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Identifying Punishers & Understanding their Impact on BehaviorBreaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Identifying Punishers & Understanding their Impact on Behavior
    Test your knowledge of behavior principles with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she breaks down a BCBA® mock exam question about the concept of punishers, clarifying their true definition based on their effect on behavior. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-6: Define and provide examples of positive and negative punishment contingencies; and G-16: Use positive and negative punishment (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).
  • Differential Reinforcement Procedure for Problem Behavior ReductionDifferential Reinforcement Procedure for Problem Behavior Reduction
    Test your ABA terminology with PTB founder Dana Meller as she discusses the behavior change procedure, differential reinforcement of low rates (DRL). Dana explains how DRL specifically targets lower rates of responding and shares valuable insights on effectively implementing this technique in behavior management strategies.
  • ABA Terminology: Dimensions of ABATest your ABA Terminology ➠ Identify the Correct Dimension of ABA
    Test your understanding of philosophical underpinnings with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews the dimension of ABA, exhibited when a behavior analyst utilizes assessment methods to identify the function of challenging behavior. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-5: Describe and define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968).
  • Understanding Mentalism TerminologyUnderstanding Mentalism Terminology
    Test your understanding of philosophical underpinnings with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she discusses the term mentalism and its association with explanations and practices in traditional psychology. Dana breaks down the three terms upon which mentalism is reliant: Hypothetical Construct, Explanatory Fiction, and Circular Reasoning. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-5: Describe and define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Riley, 1968).
  • Using Stimulus Salience to Increase Studying EffectivenessDana Do's: Using Stimulus Salience to Increase Studying Effectiveness
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller discusses the ways in which you can increase your studying effectiveness through stimulus salience. We know that ABA works, and Dana reminds students to utilize basic ABA principles to help themselves prepare for the BCBA® exam. Refer to Task List section B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control.
  • ABA Terminology: Stimuli Paired in Respondent ConditioningABA Terminology ➠ Stimuli Paired in Respondent Conditioning
    Learn about respondent conditioning, where an unconditioned stimulus and a neutral stimulus are paired to create a conditioned response.
  • ABA Terminology: Verbal OperantTest Your ABA Terminology ➠ Identify the Verbal Operant Explained in This Scenario
    Learn how your verbal behavior, reinforced in the past, defines the operant, even if it’s not reinforced in the moment. PTB founder Dana Meller clears up common misconceptions about mands and their reinforcement history.
  • Breaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Identify the Compound Schedule of ReinforcementBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Identify the Compound Schedule of Reinforcement
    Test your concepts and principles skills with PTB founder Dana Meller, as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about the compound schedule of reinforcement in the context of voting. Here, Dana details the key features of the mixed, concurrent, conjunctive, and tandem schedules of reinforcement, as well as provides corresponding examples.
  • Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Parameters for Using PunishmentBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Parameters for Using Punishment
    Test your knowledge of concepts & principles with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about the parameters to consider when using punishment.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Matching Law vs. Behavioral ContrastTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Matching Law vs. Behavioral Contrast in ABA
    Put your ABA terminology knowledge to the test with PTB founder Dana Meller as she compares two commonly confused terms: matching law vs. behavioral contrast, and discusses corresponding examples of each.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Temporal Contiguity Explained in DetailTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Temporal Contiguity Explained in Detail
    Test your knowledge of concepts and principles with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she discusses the term temporal contiguity, its association with operant and respondent conditioning. Here, Dana breaks down the different relationship factors that contiguity shares with operant and respondent conditioning. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-3: Define and provide examples of respondent and operant conditioning.
  • Explore the Reinforcement Procedure Most Similar to Precision TeachingExplore the Reinforcement Procedure Most Similar to Precision Teaching
    Test your understanding of behavior-change procedures and ABA educational methodologies with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews the specific differential reinforcement procedure most closely connected to precision teaching. Here, Dana provides a concise overview of the individualized instructional method, its focus on fluency-building, and some key aspects of the methodology.
  • Breaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Replication Using the Dimensions of ABABreaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Replication Using the Dimensions of ABA
    Test your Philosophical Underpinnings knowledge with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about identifying the specific dimension of ABA that ensures behavior analytic work can be replicated. Included is a description of behavioral, conceptually systematic, effective, and technological. As an added bonus, Dana shares a clever exercise that helps have better clarity on the purpose of each dimensions. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-5: Describe and define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968).
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Name the Conditioned Motivating Operation (CMO) in This ScenarioTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Name the Conditioned Motivating Operation (CMO) in This Scenario
    Test your knowledge of ABA concepts and principles as PTB co-founder Dana Meller reviews a memorable question about the specific conditioned motivating operation (CMO) described in the scenario, as well as provides additional examples. Included are a description of the CMO pairing process and the resulting behavior and value-altering effects acquired through the pairing process. As a BONUS, Dana shares a tip that will help you on the Big Exam with questions related to CMO. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations.
  • Breaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Negative Reinforcement ContingenciesBreaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Negative Reinforcement Contingencies
    Test your concepts and principles skills with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about negative reinforcement. Included is a description of CMOS, free operant avoidance, and discriminated avoidance, as well as corresponding detailed examples.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: DRL vs. DRDTest Your ABA Terminology ➠ DRL vs. DRD
    Test your ABA knowledge of differential reinforcement procedures as PTB founder Dana Meller discusses the similarities and key differences between DRL and DRD procedures in ABA.
  • Mock BCBA® Exam Question Breakdown: Identify the Best Example of Response GeneralizationBreak Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Identify the Best Example of Response Generalization
    Test your concepts and principles skills with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about response generalization. Dana highlights the differences between response generalization vs. stimulus generalization and shares a good rule of thumb for evaluating a response generalization scenario. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-11: Define and provide examples of discrimination, generalization, and maintenance.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: MO vs. SDTest your ABA Terminology ➠ MO vs Sᵈ
    Test your understanding of antecedents and behavior change with PTB co-founder Dana Meller. Here she explains the distinction between Sᵈs and MOs, explores their evocative function, and discusses how they can alter our behavioral repertoire when combined. Through relatable examples, Dana illustrates the importance of understanding the interplay between Sᵈs and MOs in behavior change. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-10: Define and provide examples of stimulus control and B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations.
  • Break Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Use the Dimensions of ABA to Identify, "What Makes Us Behavioral?"Break Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Use the Dimensions of ABA to Identify, "What Makes Us Behavioral?"
    Test your Philosophical Underpinnings knowledge with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question that breaks down the dimensions of ABA, identifying the specific dimension that describes the defining features of a behavior analyst. Included is a description of each of the answer options, determinism, empiricism, applied, and behavioral. Refer to the BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section A-5: Describe and define the dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968).
  • Programming for Generalization: Expanding Skills Beyond the Learning EnvironmentProgramming for Generalization: Expanding Skills Beyond the Learning Environment
    There are seven ways to program for generalization. PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into "Indiscriminable Contingencies". Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-11: Define and provide examples of discrimination, generalization, and maintenance; G-21: Use procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.
  • Challenge Your Knowledge of Compound Schedules of ReinforcementChallenge Your Knowledge of Compound Schedules of Reinforcement
    Test your knowledge of concepts and principles with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she examines a question about one of the compound schedules of reinforcement that has the potential to challenge a client's frustration tolerance. Dana emphasizes the frustrating components of this specific schedule by providing the key features and corresponding applied setting examples. Also included are descriptions of the chained reinforcement schedule and the trial-by-error process. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-5: Define and provide examples of schedules of reinforcement.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Understanding Behavior-Altering EffectsTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Understanding Behavior-Altering Effects
    Test your terminology. PTB founder Dana Meller explains the umbrella term, "motivating operations" and breaks down the sub-categories.
  • Breaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Behavioral MomentumBreaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question: Behavioral Momentum
    PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down a BCBA® mock exam question related to behavioral momentum.
  • Level Up Your Understanding of Differential Reinforcement ProceduresLevel Up Your Understanding of Differential Reinforcement Procedures
    Test your knowledge of differential reinforcement with PTB founder Dana Meller as she discusses the specific DR procedure to provide the client with reinforcement for exhibiting higher rates of the target behavior(s) that already exist in their repertoire. Additionally, Dana draws parallels to personal experiences and highlights skill areas for which clients could benefit from this SR schedule.
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Explore the 2 Types of Negative ReinforcementTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Explore the 2 Types of Negative Reinforcement
    Test your understanding of negative reinforcement with PTB founder Dana Meller as she discusses the two specific types and details and nuances using relatable examples that significantly impact our everyday lives.
  • Hungry by Association: The Conditioned Motivating Operation Behind TV Ad CravingsHungry by Association: The Conditioned Motivating Operation Behind TV Ad Cravings
    Put your knowledge of motivating operations to the test. PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into a specific type of CMO and explains how seemingly innocuous visuals on TV ads can trigger a state of deprivation for the advertised item, resembling the effects of an unconditioned motivating operation. Dana presents an intriguing example highlighting the process of pairing and the associations that can unexpectedly ignite intense cravings. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-12: Define and provide examples of motivating operations and G-2 Use interventions based on motivating operations and discriminative stimuli.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Understanding Respondent-Operant InteractionsBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Understanding Respondent-Operant Interactions
    Test your behavior-change procedures skills with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question that explores respondent-operant interactions, comparing and contrasting habilitation, habituation, and adaptation, with an emphasis on the importance of reinforcement. The breakdown touches on operant conditioning and its role in behavior change.
  • Verbal Operants: Understanding the Roles of Speaker and Listener in a ConversationVerbal Operants: Understanding the Roles of Speaker and Listener in a Conversation
    Test your verbal behavior knowledge with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews verbal operants, the roles of the speaker and listener. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-14: Define and provide examples of the verbal operants
  • Test your ABA Terminology: Identify the Stimulus ClassTest your ABA Terminology ➠ Identify the Stimulus Class
    Test your knowledge of concepts and principles as PTB co-founder Dana Meller reviews a question about identifying a specific type of stimulus class, and the features associated with the three main stimulus class variations. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-2: Define and provide examples of stimulus and stimulus class.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question Breakdown: Understanding Respondent ConditioningBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Understanding Respondent Conditioning
    Test your concepts and principles skills with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about respondent conditioning, breaking down the process. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-3: Define and provide examples of respondent and operant conditioning.
  • Test Your ABA Terminology: What Are The 3 Types of ExtinctionTest Your ABA Terminology ➠ What Are The 3 Types of Extinction?
    Test your knowledge of Concepts & Principles and Behavior-Change Procedures with PTB co-founder Dana Meller as she reviews the different types of operant extinction procedures. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Sections B-9: Define and provide examples of operant extinction, G-15: Use extinction.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Basic Schedules of Intermittent ReinforcementBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Basic Schedules of Intermittent Reinforcement
    Enhance your understanding of ABA concepts and principles with PTB co-founder Dana Meller's explanation of a BCBA® mock exam question based on basic schedules of intermittent reinforcement, including fixed interval, fixed ratio, variable interval, and variable ratio schedules. Explore the unique patterns of responding associated with each schedule, and learn more about the schedule that produces a postreinforcement pause. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-5: Define and provide examples of schedules of reinforcement.
  • BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Identify the Intervention's Reinforcement ScheduleBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Identify the Intervention's Reinforcement Schedule
    Test your behavior-change procedures skills with PTB founder Dana Meller as she breaks down a BCBA® mock exam question about the differences between contingent and non-contingent schedules, focusing on an antecedent-based, response-independent schedule of reinforcement.
  • Mastering the ABCs of BehaviorPTB'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).
  • Breaking Down a Mock BCBA® Exam Question About Compound Schedules of ReinforcementBreaking Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Compound Schedules of Reinforcement
    Test your Behavior-Change Procedures skills with PTB founder Dana Meller as she reviews a BCBA® mock exam question about the chained schedule, compound schedule of reinforcement. Included is a description of the alternative schedule, concurrent schedule, and conjunctive schedule.
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