Behavior Reduction

Wednesday

What is behavior reduction?

Using evidence-based procedures to decrease behaviors that interfere with learning, safety, or daily living.

What is a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?

A written plan developed by the BCBA that outlines how to respond to challenging behavior and teach replacement skills.

Who creates a BIP?

The BCBA.

What is the RBT’s role with a BIP?

Implement the plan exactly as written and collect accurate data.

Can an RBT change a BIP?

No. Only the BCBA can modify a behavior plan.

What is the function of behavior?

To produce a desired outcome.

What are the four common functions of behavior?

Attention, Escape, Tangible (access to items/activities), and Automatic (sensory). Memory trick: AETA (Attention, Escape, Tangible, Automatic).

What is a replacement behavior?

A more appropriate behavior that serves the same function as the challenging behavior. Example: Instead of screaming for a toy, the child requests the toy appropriately.

Why teach replacement behaviors?

Simply reducing a behavior isn’t enough. Clients need a safer, functional way to meet the same need.

What is an antecedent intervention?

A strategy used before a behavior occurs to reduce the likelihood of the behavior.

What are examples of antecedent interventions?

Giving choices, visual schedules, First/Then boards, offering breaks, priming, and noncontingent reinforcement (NCR).

Why use antecedent interventions?

Preventing challenging behavior is often more effective than reacting after it occurs.

What is extinction?

No longer providing the reinforcement that previously maintained a behavior.

What usually happens when extinction begins?

An extinction burst—the behavior may temporarily increase before decreasing. Don’t panic if behavior gets worse at first.

Should extinction be implemented consistently?

Yes. Inconsistent implementation can strengthen the behavior.

What is differential reinforcement?

Reinforcing desired behaviors while reducing reinforcement for challenging behaviors.

What is DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior)?

Reinforce an appropriate alternative behavior. Example: Teach asking for help instead of yelling.

What is DRI (Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior)?

Reinforce a behavior that cannot occur at the same time as the problem behavior. Example: Hands in pockets instead of hitting.

What is DRO (Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior)?

Reinforce the absence of the target behavior during a specified time period. Example: No aggression for 10 minutes earns reinforcement.

What is DRL (Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates)?

Reinforce a reduction in the frequency of a behavior rather than eliminating it. Example: Reducing interruptions from 20 to 5 per class.

What should you do during dangerous behavior?

Follow the behavior plan and prioritize safety for the client and others.

Can an RBT use restraint whenever they think it’s necessary?

No. Only use procedures you are trained and authorized to implement according to the behavior plan and your organization’s policies.

What should you do after a serious behavior incident?

Follow documentation procedures, collect data, and notify the supervising BCBA according to policy.

Why collect data during behavior reduction?

To determine whether interventions are effective.

Should data collection continue during challenging behavior?

Yes, as long as it can be done safely and according to the plan.

Why reinforce replacement behaviors?

To increase the likelihood that the client will use the appropriate behavior in the future.

Should challenging behavior be reinforced?

No. Follow the behavior plan to avoid reinforcing behaviors that are targeted for reduction.

What if the behavior plan doesn’t seem to be working?

Continue implementing it as written and discuss your observations with the BCBA.

Should an RBT invent new interventions?

Never. Only implement interventions approved by the BCBA.

What is the most important thing to remember during behavior reduction?

Stay consistent, follow the behavior plan, collect accurate data, and teach appropriate replacement behaviors