ABA Glossary

By Dana Meller, M.A., BCBA
Edited by Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D
ABA Glossary by Dana Meller, M.A., BCBA, edited by Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D

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 specific sequence.

5th Edition Task List

G-8  Use chaining.

6th Edition TCO

G.12 Select and implement chaining procedures.

Related Content

  • 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…
  • 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…
  • ABA terms you need to know: behavior chain.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.
  • 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: 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.
  • 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.
  • PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the concept of enhancing reinforcement schedules by adding an extra criterion to motivate quicker and more accurate responses. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.Boosting Speed & Accuracy with Reinforcement Schedule Parameters
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the concept of enhancing reinforcement schedules by adding an extra criterion to motivate quicker and more accurate responses. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.
  • Let's break down a BCBA® mock exam question about chaining.Let's Break Down a BCBA® Mock Exam Question: Level Up Your Chaining Game for Maximum Efficiency & Natural SR+
    PTB co-founder Dana Meller reviews and breaks down in detail a BCBA® mock exam question about different chaining methods in behavior analysis. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.
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