Goals of behavior analysis
This goal of behavior analysis involves simply observing and reporting what is happening without making assumptions
Description
This assumption suggests that behaviors are shaped over time through consequences
Selectionism
A teacher notices that students talk more after lunch than in the morning. Which goal of behavior analysis is this?
Prediction
Gordon Ramsey-
"Alright, LISTEN UP! I see that my sous chef burns every steak. That's description. I bet he'll burn the next one- that's prediction. But if I change the way he cooks it and he finally gets it right, THAT'S... What?"
Control
If a behavior occurs reliably under specific conditions, we acheive this goal, allowing us to anticipate future behavior.
Prediction
We rely on observable, measurable, evidence instead of personal opinions when studying behavior
Empiricism
A BCBA tests whether giving breaks reduces aggression. They track behavior before and after the change. Which assumption applies?
"Okay, so like, some girl at brunch says I NEED to try this new crystal water because it, like, totally rewires my energy or whatever. And I'm like, 'babes, where's the actual PROOF?' Skinner says I'm using what?"
philosophical doubt
This is the highest goal of behavior analysis, where we manipulate variables to influence behavior.
Control
This assumption states that behavior happens for a reason. It's not random and behavior's do not "come out of nowhere"
Determinism
A BCBA asks teachers to track data using momentary time sampling versus frequency data for out of seat behavior. This choice was made to ensure the intervention is realistic and practical to implement in a school setting.
Pragmatism
Taylor Swift
"Okay, so I don't just feel like 'All Too Well (10 Minute Version)' was a success- I check the Billboard charts, streaming stats, and Grammy nominations. What principle am I following?"
Empiricism
A BCBA records how many times a child raises their hand in class. What goal of behavior analysis is being met?
Description
This assumption requires us to repeat experiments to ensure findings are reliable
A BCBA questions whether a common intervention is truly effective, so they review the research before implementing it.
Philisophic doubt
Ron Swanson
"There are two ways to fix a pothole. One, hold 37 city counsil meetings, draft pointless legislation, and waste 6 months of taxpayer money. Or two, grab a shovel and fill the thing myself in five minutes. Skinner would say always choose WHAT?"
Parsimony
If we find that rewarding a child for completing homework reduces tantrums, we have achieved this goal.
Control
This assumption tells us to practice healthy skepticism
A BCBA notices that a simple reinforcement schedule works just as well as an expensive, high tech intervention. Which assumption should guide their decision in which intervention to implement?
Parsimony
Micheal Scott
"Alright, LISTEN UP! Back in the day, I tried so many sales pitches. Some BOMBED. Some were FIRE. Over time, I only kept the good ones. Skinner would call that what?"
Selectionism