CDT Behavior Modification Protocols 3

Question 1

Which schedule of reinforcement is most effective for maintaining a behavior that has already been learned through behavior modification?

Accepted Answer

Variable ratio schedule

Answer

Variable ratio schedules produce the highest rates of responding and greatest resistance to extinction, making them ideal for maintaining learned behaviors.

Question 2

A dog displays separation anxiety by destroying furniture only after the owner has been gone for more than 30 minutes. What is the most appropriate initial step?

Accepted Answer

Begin departure cue desensitization and keep initial absences under the dog's anxiety threshold

Answer

Desensitizing departure cues and keeping absences below the dog's current anxiety threshold prevents rehearsal of the panic response while building tolerance.

Question 3

In the context of behavior modification, what does 'extinction burst' refer to?

Accepted Answer

A temporary increase in the intensity or frequency of a behavior when reinforcement is first removed

Answer

An extinction burst is the temporary increase in an unwanted behavior's frequency or intensity that occurs when reinforcement is first withheld.

Question 4

Which of the following is the best example of 'negative reinforcement' used appropriately in behavior modification?

Accepted Answer

Releasing leash pressure when the dog moves in the desired direction

Answer

Releasing leash pressure (removing an aversive stimulus) when the dog moves correctly is negative reinforcement — it increases the probability of the desired movement.

Question 5

A trainer wants to reduce a dog's compulsive tail-chasing using a DRI protocol. DRI stands for:

Accepted Answer

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible behavior

Answer

DRI — Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible behavior — reinforces a behavior that physically cannot occur at the same time as the unwanted behavior.

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

CDT Behavior Modification Protocols 3