Selecting & Implementing Interventions

A behavior selected for change because it improves the client's life — increasing access to reinforcement, independence, or quality of life — as judged by the client and stakeholders, not merely the convenience of others.

The degree to which a behavior change maximizes long-term reinforcers and minimizes long-term punishers for the individual and others; a guiding standard for choosing target behaviors worth teaching.

A precise, objective description of behavior in observable, measurable terms so that independent observers can reliably agree on whether it occurred.

A topography-based definition specifies the form/movement of the response; a function-based definition specifies the effect on the environment regardless of form. Function-based definitions can capture diverse topographies that produce the same outcome.

Identifying and describing the specific behavior of interest clearly enough that it is distinguishable from other behaviors and can be measured consistently.

Behaviors that contact existing reinforcers in the natural environment are more likely to maintain after intervention ends because the environment continues to reinforce them (behavior traps).