Question
A BCBA is planning to collect data on a child’s disruptive behavior that will be targeted for reduction. The behavior of interest is defined as a high-pitched scream that always occurs 3 times in rapid succession and occurs multiple times throughout the day. Which measurement tool would produce the most reliable data collection for the disruptive behavior?
- Duration
- Inter-response time
- Rate
- Latency
Rationale
Step 1: Identify the concept being tested
This question tests your understanding of systems of measurement.
Step 2: Analyze the question
In this scenario, a Behavior Analyst is planning to collect data on a behavior targeted for reduction. The parameters of the behavior are described in the question stem and the reader is asked to identify the most appropriate measurement tool to record the behavior.
The Correct Answer is C
Rate is a measurement of frequency over a specified time interval. Using a frequency measure that includes a time interval can aid in the BCBA’s understanding of the behavior for intervention purposes. High frequency behaviors with discrete beginnings and ends are best measured with frequency measurement systems.
Incorrect Choices:
- Duration is a measurement of the length of time a behavior occurs from it’s onset to offset.
- Inter-response time is a measurement tool used to record the amount of the time between two instances of a behavior.
- Latency is the measurement of time between the presentation of a discriminative stimulus and the onset of the behavior of interest.
Task List Reference:
Task List 4 Section Area:
A. Measurement
Task List 4 Item:
A-02. Rate
Secondary Task List 4 Section Area:
H. Measurement
Secondary Task List 4 Item:
H-01. Select a measurement system to obtain representative data given the dimensions of the behavior and the logistics of observing and recording.
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BCBA Self Study Exam Prep Package
A comprehensive package that gives you all the essential pieces you need to pass the BACB Certification Exam. The BCBA Self-Study Exam Prep Package comes with over 500 questions that were created for BAs, by BAs.
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