BACB Experimental Design and Research 2

Question 1

What is the defining characteristic of a 'functional analysis' of behavior?

Accepted Answer

Systematically manipulating antecedents and consequences to identify the reinforcer(s) maintaining problem behavior

Answer

A functional analysis directly manipulates antecedent and consequent conditions to experimentally identify the specific reinforcer(s) maintaining problem behavior.

Question 2

Which functional behavior assessment (FBA) method involves structured interviews and rating scales without direct observation?

Accepted Answer

Indirect assessment

Answer

Indirect assessment relies on retrospective reports from caregivers, teachers, or the individual via interviews, questionnaires, or rating scales rather than direct data collection.

Question 3

A descriptive FBA (e.g., ABC recording) differs from a functional analysis in that it:

Accepted Answer

Documents naturally occurring antecedents and consequences without manipulating variables

Answer

Descriptive FBA observes and records naturally occurring ABCs without manipulating variables, providing correlational rather than experimental evidence of behavioral function.

Question 4

In a standard functional analysis, what does an elevated response rate in the 'alone' condition typically suggest?

Accepted Answer

The behavior is maintained by automatic (sensory) reinforcement

Answer

High rates of behavior in the alone condition (no social stimuli) indicate the behavior produces its own reinforcement (automatic/sensory reinforcement) independent of social consequences.

Question 5

Which condition in a standard Iwata et al. functional analysis tests whether the behavior is maintained by escape from demands?

Accepted Answer

Demand/task condition

Answer

The demand (task) condition presents academic or work tasks and delivers brief escape from tasks contingent on problem behavior, testing whether escape is the maintaining consequence.

BACB - Behavior Analyst Certification Board Practice Test

BACB - Behavior Analyst Certification Board Practice Test

BACB Experimental Design and Research 2