Behavior AssessmentDifficulty 3/5
A functional analysis shows elevated responding in the attention condition and near-zero responding in demand, tangible and alone conditions. What does this support?
- AEscape from demands, since responding ends task presentation
- BAn undifferentiated pattern across conditions that requires modified analysis conditions
- CAutomatic reinforcement, since responding persists without any social consequence
- DSocially mediated positive reinforcement in the form of attention
Show answer and rationale
Correct: D. Differentiated elevation in the attention condition alone indicates behavior maintained by socially mediated positive reinforcement (attention). Automatic reinforcement typically shows persistent responding in the alone condition.
- C — Automatic reinforcement usually produces high responding when alone.
- A — Escape would elevate the demand condition.
- B — The pattern is clearly differentiated.