DEFINING BEHAVIOR

Assignment Instructions

Clear and operationally defined behaviors are important for the field of behavior analysis for several reasons. Clear definitions are necessary to replicate findings and to determine the accuracy of data. This replication and accuracy are key in providing the field with credible research. After developing observable and measurable behavior definitions, we can take a deeper look at the environmental variables that influence those behaviors and categorize those behaviors in a meaningful way.

There are two parts to this assignment.

Part One: Observation

You need to observe someone for half an hour and identify three behaviors of interest that could be selected for behavior modification. To avoid reactivity, attempt to keep the observation as discrete as possible without informing the subject that he or she is being observed. Some examples of potential behaviors could include:

• Observing your child wiping his nose on his sleeve.
• Observing a TV character telling inappropriate jokes.
• Observing a friend bite her nails.

Part Two: Write a Paper

After your observation is complete, write a paper using APA style in which you:

• Define operationally the behaviors you chose. These definitions should be specific, objective, and measurable.
• Describe the environmental contingencies surrounding each behavior (antecedents and consequences).
• Analyze the differences and similarities between a response class and a stimulus class.
• Provide an example for both termsstimulus class and response class.

Assignment Requirements

Your assignment should meet the following requirements:

• Written communication: Should be free of errors that detract from the overall message.
• APA formatting: References and citations are formatted according to current APA style guidelines. Review  for more information on how to cite your sources.
• Resources: 23 scholarly or professional resources.
• Length: 34 double-spaced pages of content in addition to the title page and references page.
• SafeAssign: You are required to use SafeAssign before submitting the completed assignment to your instructor. Submit your work to SafeAssign as a draft, review the results, and make any needed changes. When you are ready, submit your assignment to the assignment area for grading.

• Competencies Measured

  By successfully completing this assignment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and scoring guide criteria:

  • Competency 2: Analyze the principles of behavior associated with response rates and stimulus control. 
  • Define operationally three behaviors. 
  • Describe the environmental contingencies surrounding each behavior. 
  • Analyze the differences and similarities between a response class and a stimulus class. 
  • Provide an example of a stimulus class and a response class. 
  • Competency 4: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly and consistent with expectations for professionals in the field of psychology. 
  • Demonstrate an academic writing style through well-organized prose that follows assignment guidelines. 
  • Demonstrate compliance with APA style, citation, and referencing guidelines.