ABA Basics
What does ABC stand for in ABC data?
Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence
A clinet screams, and staff immediately give attention. What function might be maintaining the screaming?
Attention
Your client starts engaging in a behavior listed in the BIP. What should you do?
Follow the client's current BIP as trained and collect the required data. Call for a supervisor if you need assistance following the current BIP.
Can you discuss a client's behavior in a public place if you do not say the client's name?
No. Other details may still identify the client; protect confidentiality.
Before starting a session, name one thing you should review for your client.
Examples: all about me, current BIP, treatment protocols/programs, medical (seizure) protocols or daily schedule.
What is positive reinforcement?
Adding a stimulus after a behavior that increases the future likelihood of that behavior
A client drops to the floor when a work demand is presented, and the task is removed. What function is suggested?
Escape
You are unsure how to run a program. What should you do before continuing?
Ask the appropriate supervisor/BCBA/case manager for clarification rather than guessing.
An RBT notices another therapist using a procedure differently than what is written in the client’s BIP. What should the RBT do?
Notify the appropriate supervisor (ACS or BCBA) so they can assist in the behavior an ensure the current BIP is being followed.
Why are preference assessments useful?
They help identify items or activities that may function as effective reinforcers.
What is a prompt?
An extra cue or assistance used to increase the likelihood of a correct response.
A client reaches for a snack, cried and then receives the snack. What function is suggested?
Access to tangibles
Another client's therapist is handling problem behavior and you want to help. What should you do?
Stay with your assigned client and ask if they need help. Let a supervisor know if there is a safety concern.
You notice you entered data incorrectly. What should you do?
Tell the appropriate supervisor (ACS or BCBA) and work with them to ensure accurate data is entered. Never knowingly leave inaccurate data.
What should session notes describe: opinions or observable facts?
Observable, objective facts.
What is extinction?
A client repeatedly hums while alone and continues even when no one responds. What function might be considered?
Automatic reinforcement
A client suddenly shows a new, severe behavior that is not addressed in the current plan. What should you do?
Prioritize safety, call for a supervisor to assist you in next steps, and document by writing ACB data.
A parent asks you for advice outside your training and role. What should you do?
Stay within your scope/role and refer the question to the appropriate supervisor.
When should you seek supervisor assistance during problem behavior?
According to the BIP, when safety is at risk, the plan is unclear/ineffective, or the situation is outside your role or training.
A client independently asks for a break after being taught to say “break please” instead of engaging in problem behavior. What ABA procedure is being used?
Functional communication training
A client hits during difficult tasks and also hits when peers have preferred toys. What is the best conclusion?
Do not assume one function. Collect data/assess the behavior because it may be multiply controlled.
An RBT notices a client is regressing in a certain skill for several sessions. Should the RBT independently change the teaching procedure?
No. Continue the authorized plan and bring the data/concern to the supervisor or BCBA for clinical decision-making.
An RBT’s client’s parent sends them a friend request on social media and then messages them asking for advice about the client’s behavior at home. What should the RBT do?
Maintain professional boundaries, avoid discussing client services through personal social media, and direct the parent to the appropriate supervisor/BCBA?
Why is treatment integrity important?
It helps ensure the intervention is implemented as designed so data and treatment decisions are meaningful.