ABA basics
What is the primary goal of ABA?
To improve socially significant behaviors.
What is positive reinforcement?
Adding a stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
What is frequency data?
The number of times a behavior occurs.
What is dual relationship in ABA?
A situation where multiple roles exist between the therapist and client that may impair objectivity.
How many points are deducted for being tardy to the first session?
0.5 points
What is a discriminative stimulus (SD)?
A cue or signal that a particular behavior will be reinforced.
Give an example of negative reinforcement.
Removing a loud noise when a child puts on headphones.
What is partial interval recording?
Recording whether the behavior occurred at any time during an interval.
What is the ethical obligation if a BCBA suspects abuse?
Report it to the appropriate authorities immediately.
What happens if an employee cancels a session with less than 24 hours’ notice?
2 points are deducted.
What are the ABCs of ABA?
Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence
What is a token economy?
A system where tokens are earned and exchanged for backup reinforcers.
What is latency recording?
The time between the SD and the start of the behavior.
What should you do if a parent asks them to do something outside of the behavior plan?
Politely explain that they must follow the written behavior plan and notify their supervisor.
Name two examples of behaviors that may lead to a 3-point deduction from a parent complaint.
Late arrival, personal phone use during session, use of reprimands, or lack of client engagement.
Define “generalization” in ABA.
The transfer of learned behavior to new settings, people, or stimuli.
What is the Premack Principle?
Using a more preferred activity to reinforce a less preferred one (e.g., “First clean up, then play iPad”).
What should a BT or RBT do before starting data collection each session?
Review the client’s current goals, check for updates in the behavior plan, and prepare all necessary materials
What is your responsibility if you are running late or need to cancel a session?
Notify the group chat and or supervisor as soon as possible and follow company policies for reporting attendance changes.
Are emergency-related cancellations (e.g., illness, childcare, transportation) exempt from point deductions?
No, they are included under the policy.
Name two common functions of behavior.
Attention, Escape, Tangible, Automatic
What is satiation and how can it affect reinforcement?
Satiation occurs when a reinforcer loses its effectiveness because it has been used too often, leading to decreased motivation.
How does accurate data collection help the supervising BCBA?
It provides reliable information to make treatment decisions, track progress, and adjust programs as needed.
Why is accurate data collection an ethical responsibility for BTs/RBTs?
Because treatment decisions rely on data, and inaccurate data can lead to harmful or ineffective interventions.
If a BT or RBT receives repeated point deductions for the same issue, what proactive steps should they take to prevent further consequences?
They should meet with their supervisor to discuss the issue, develop a corrective action plan, ask for additional support or training if needed, and implement consistent changes to avoid future violations.