Formal similarity
A concept in verbal behavior wherein the controlling stimulus (verbal SD) and the verbal behavior have the same topographical sense mode/form.
Formal stimulus class
A group of stimuli that share physical/topographical features.
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5th Edition Task List
B-2 Define and provide examples of stimulus and stimulus class.
6th Edition TCO
B.2 Identify and distinguish between stimulus and stimulus class.
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
5th Edition Task List
6th Edition TCO
Four-term contingency
A motivating operation is added to a three-term contingency and the added component of motivation has an abative or evocative effect on the behavior (e.g., MO-SD-Bx-C).
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6th Edition TCO
Free-operant avoidance
When the contingency for behavior is that it prevents and/or delays the onset of an aversive stimulus. The avoidant response occurs without the presence of a signal/SD and can occur
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.
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5th Edition Task List
G-9 Use discrete-trial, free-operant, and naturalistic teaching arrangements.
6th Edition TCO
G.13 Design and evaluate trial-based and free-operant procedures.
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 teaching Read More
5th Edition Task List
G-9 Use discrete-trial, free-operant, and naturalistic teaching arrangements.
6th Edition TCO
G.13 Design and evaluate trial-based and free-operant procedures.
Function-altering effect
A phenomenon where the consequence of a behavior in the presence of an MO changes the behavior evoked by the specific or similar MOs in the future.
Functional analysis (FA)
A functional assessment activity during which the antecedents and consequences in the client’s natural environment are arranged and systematically manipulated so that their individual effects on challenging behavior can be
Functional behavior assessment (FBA)
The methods and activities used by behavior analysts to gather information about the function of problem behavior, the results of which are used to guide goal setting and interventions for