Newest BCBA® Exam #3

Questions

Settings

Feedback

During the Quiz End of Quiz

Play as

Quiz Flashcard

Create your own Quiz

This test is copyrighted. If you haven't paid for it, please do so.
Okay, this exam is not timed. Take as long as you like. Save and resume, as needed. You'll receive a report at completion with all of your answers (correct and incorrect) along with detailed explanations. These tests are meant to inform and REDUCE your anxiety, so take it easy. Even take this twice, if you'd like. Thanks.

Questions and Answers

1.

Susan is conducting discrete trials with Tommy in which she places an item on the table and then asks Tommy “What is it?” After Tommy correctly identifies the item he is given a goldfish cracker. He has successfully identified spoon, ball, cup, apple, and banana. Susan then places the goldfish on the table and asks “What is it?” Tommy says “goldfish” and receives a cracker. Saying “goldfish” demonstrates which verbal operant?
- A.
  
  Listener behavior
- B.
  
  Echoic
- C.
  
  Intraverbal
- D.
  
  Mand
Correct Answer
D. Mand

Explanation
Since the reinforcement was a goldfish, stating goldfish is a mand. Recall that mands are the only verbal operant that are reinforced by the item identified in the verbal behavior. D-11 (Mayer, 383) Section D

Rate this question:
2.

Katherine recently became ill and it has become clear that she is not able to continue providing services for her clients. Assuming Katherine has been providing ethical services to her clients this will not be an issue because:
- A.
  
  Katherine has kept detailed records of treatment.
- B.
  
  Katherine works with a team and she updated them weekly on client progress.
- C.
  
  Katherine is able to discuss the client before transferring services.
- D.
  
  A new provider should perform their own assessments anyway.
Correct Answer
A. Katherine has kept detailed records of treatment.

Explanation
It is possible that Katherine will not be available to provide assistance in transferring the client. The treatment records will need to be detailed with sufficient data in order to reduce the impact on the client when services need to be transferred to a new provider, even if the transfer is temporary. K-01 (BACB Ethical and Professional Code, 2.10) Section K

Rate this question:
3.

In order to find out how many times Travis passed the basketball, one would measure:
- A.
  
  Duration
- B.
  
  Frequency
- C.
  
  Percent of occurrence
- D.
  
  Rate
Correct Answer
B. Frequency

Explanation
This is simply a count, rather than an average per minute or hour. Count is the same as frequency and is differentiated from rate on the 4th edition task list. A-1 Section A

Rate this question:
4.

The first thing to do when initiating a new case is to:
- A.
  
  Complete a functional assessment
- B.
  
  Review what has been done previously
- C.
  
  Ensure that medical factors have been considered
- D.
  
  Interview those familiar with the case, including the client, when appropriate
Correct Answer
B. Review what has been done previously

Explanation
Subsection G-1 reads, “Review records and available data at the outset of the case.” This is what needs to be done. Section G

Rate this question:
5.

Beth is a BCBA at a residential facility for adolescent individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder. She is currently writing a behavior plan for a 16-year-old female whose goals include independent living skills. When writing the plan, Beth should ensure which of the following?
- A.
  
  That the staff have prior experience with implementing the program.
- B.
  
  That the learner demonstrates the ability to respond to behavioral contingencies.
- C.
  
  That the staff’s preference is considered in choosing an intervention.
- D.
  
  That following the program results in reinforcement for the staff.
Correct Answer
D. That following the program results in reinforcement for the staff.

Explanation
The behavior is maintained by reinforcing contingencies. If implementing the intervention does not provide reinforcement for staff, procedural drift or integrity may become an issue. K-02 (Mayer, 34) Section K

Rate this question:
6.

Mason just finished cleaning his room. After his Dad sees his room, he tells Mason “Give me a high five.” To which Mason responds by giving his Dad a high five. Which verbal behavior did Mason demonstrate when he gave his father a high five?
- A.
  
  Intraverbal behavior
- B.
  
  Tact behavior
- C.
  
  Listener behavior
- D.
  
  Echoic behavior
Correct Answer
C. Listener behavior

Explanation
Listener behavior is defined as responding to verbal stimuli; most commonly seen with verbal instructions. Since the behavior matched the verbal stimulus this is considered listener behavior. D-14 (Mayer, 393) Section D

Rate this question:
7.

Faith brings home a point sheet every day from school. As long as the point sheet indicates that she didn’t have any tantrums that day, her mother allows her to pick from a special “treat box.” What DR procedure is this mother using?
- A.
  
  DRO
- B.
  
  DRA
- C.
  
  DRL
- D.
  
  DRI
Correct Answer
A. DRO

Explanation
There is not a specified behavior that Faith must engage in during the school day. Instead the criteria is that she does NOT engage in tantruming. That is, Faith receives reinforcement for engaging in any other behavior, not specified, which is differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO). D-21 (Mayer, Chapter 28) Section D

Rate this question:
8.

Timothy has completed a task analysis for Sam making frozen meals, as Sam cannot yet prepare a meal independently. The task analysis involves 12 steps. The first step is removing the meal from the freezer. The final step is taking the meal to the table. Timothy knows, based on prior goals, that Sam responds best to immediate reinforcement. Which chaining procedure should Timothy use to teach Sam the task?
- A.
  
  Forward Chaining
- B.
  
  Total Task Chaining
- C.
  
  Backward Chaining
- D.
  
  Backward Chaining with Leap Ahead
Correct Answer
C. Backward Chaining

Explanation
Reinforcement is most successful delivered immediately and with backward chaining the last thing the learner does accesses the natural reinforcement - in this case a meal. Additionally, with learners that need immediate reinforcement, backward chaining allows the natural reinforcer of completing the chain to also provide the reinforcement during training. D-06 (Mayer, 283). "Leap ahead" is not a recognized strategy. Section D

Rate this question:
9.

Which is the most observable/measurable behavior?
- A.
  
  A student rushes through work with no attempt at quality.
- B.
  
  A student wants to grab things from peers.
- C.
  
  A student behaves inappropriately to get attention.
- D.
  
  A student leaves their seat.
Correct Answer
D. A student leaves their seat.

Explanation
A student leaving their seat is easily observed and measured. - The answer,“rushing” through work is subjective, but could be quantified. It would be more difficult to measure “attempts at quality.” - You cannot measure the momentary desire or “wanting” to grab an item (except perhaps in terms of how much behavior the person will do in order to gain reinforcement). - The word “inappropriate” covers so many behaviors, as to be practically meaningless. Section I

Rate this question:
10.

Which of the following goals is observable and measurable?
- A.
  
  Tiffany will not daydream during independent work.
- B.
  
  Tiffany will throw objects that are smaller than her hand.
- C.
  
  Tiffany will request a break when she feels frustrated.
- D.
  
  Tiffany will not throw objects with the intent to hurt someone.
Correct Answer
B. Tiffany will throw objects that are smaller than her hand.

Explanation
Remember that the question didn’t ask what was a GOOD goal, just which was observable and measurable. Day dreaming, like fantasizing, is a private event that cannot be directly measured or observed. Feelings and intent are also not measurable dimensions of behavior and are subjective in nature. Throwing objects that are smaller than her hand is objective and can be directly measured even though it does not appear to be a safe goal if the item is aimed at an individual - especially me:). J-01 Section J

Rate this question:
11.

George’s behavior intervention plan continually changed in practice over the course of the school year, although the written plan was not updated from the original. This event violates which dimension of ABA?
- A.
  
  Technological
- B.
  
  Applied
- C.
  
  Behavioral
- D.
  
  Analytic
Correct Answer
A. Technological

Explanation
A technological definition is met when procedures are “...identified and described with sufficient detail and clarity…” (Cooper, et. al, p.17) to make reliable replication possible. This means that procedures must be written or described well enough for someone else to complete them correctly. B-1 Section B

Rate this question:
12.

One way to describe a behavioral cusp is:
- A.
  
  Behavior for which there is a strong motivating operation.
- B.
  
  Behavior that is nearly mastered.
- C.
  
  Behavior upon which other behavior can be built.
- D.
  
  Behavior which is novel.
Correct Answer
C. Behavior upon which other behavior can be built.

Explanation
Both behavioral cusps and pivotal behaviors are “behavior upon which other behavior is built”, according to Mayer, et. al (2014, p.56) J-13 Section J

Rate this question:
13.

Ethical considerations are NOT:
- A.
  
  Changing with the passage of time
- B.
  
  Different for separate cultural groups
- C.
  
  Different today than they were 50 years ago
- D.
  
  A concrete and enduring set of principles
Correct Answer
D. A concrete and enduring set of principles

Explanation
According to Cooper, Heron & Heward (2007, p.660), ethical behavior “...is subject to differences across cultures and the passage of time.” The ethical code has - and will continue to - change over time. It is not indelible. Also, behavior accepted in one cultural group may not be accepted in another. Section Ethics

Rate this question:
14.

Behavior analysts rely on professionally-derived knowledge that is based on:
- A.
  
  Expert opinion
- B.
  
  Anecdotal data and science
- C.
  
  Ethics and opportunity
- D.
  
  Science and behavior analysis
Correct Answer
D. Science and behavior analysis

Explanation
This wording is taken directly from the Ethical Code, section 1.01. “Behavior analysts rely on professionally derived knowledge, based on science and behavior analysis.” Section Ethics

Rate this question:
15.

Sammy engages in high rates of hair pulling, and will also twirl her hair into large knots that must be cut out. In an effort to decrease the hair pulling and twirling, Sammy’s mother buys Sammy "fidget toys" made of yarn and provides verbal praise whenever she sees Sammy twirling or pulling the yarn. What type of differential reinforcement is this?
- A.
  
  DRO
- B.
  
  DRI
- C.
  
  DRL
- D.
  
  DRA
Correct Answer
B. DRI

Explanation
Since Sammy cannot still access her hair while twirling the yarn we know the behavior is incompatible with hair pulling. Pulling on the "fidget toy" does serve as an alternative behavior for hair pulling, but DRI is a more accurate answer, because the replacement behavior is ALSO incompatible with hair pulling. With DRO, reinforcement would be delivered for any behavior, except for hair pulling, so the scenario does not describe DRO. DRL is for increasing the IRT between responses but not for decreasing SIB to zero rates. A DRL also requires a "low" level criterion to be set. D-21(Mayer, Chapter 28) Section D

Rate this question:
16.

Rachel’s Mom says that she has tried everything to get Rachel to stop playing in the bathroom sink, but nothing seems to change. She has even set up a water table for Rachel to use, but Rachel prefers the sink. Mom reports that she will begin spanking Rachel when she catches her playing in the water, in an effort to make her stop. In this scenario what will spanking be to Rachel?
- A.
  
  Positive punishment
- B.
  
  Negative punishment
- C.
  
  Positive reinforcement
- D.
  
  A stimulus
Correct Answer
D. A stimulus

Explanation
Right now spanking is simply a stimulus. The scenario provides no indication that it is changing the behavior (yet). If spanking increases or decreases the behavior, then punishment or reinforcement would be indicated. This is important when selecting punishers, because each person will react to assumed aversive stimuli differently. D-15 Section D

Rate this question:
17.

Your client would like to stop drinking. He reports to you that he does well in most situations, but when he goes to his local bar, he usually has a drink. You suggest:
- A.
  
  A functional assessment
- B.
  
  Avoiding the bar
- C.
  
  Replacing drinking with social engagement
- D.
  
  Negative practice
Correct Answer
B. Avoiding the bar

Explanation
In this example, the bar scene seems to be a discriminative stimulus for “drinking behavior”. If you manipulate discriminative stimuli or motivating operations, this may reduce the need for anything further. An easy example is the patient who says, “Doctor, it hurts when I do this [demonstrates].” The doctor responds, “Well, don’t do that.” E-1 Section E

Rate this question:
18.

Which would NOT be appropriate for contingency contracting?
- A.
  
  Increasing number of minutes spent reading
- B.
  
  Decreasing one’s golf score
- C.
  
  Decreasing frequency of insults
- D.
  
  Increasing the frequency of flossing
Correct Answer
B. Decreasing one’s golf score

Explanation
Contingency contracts are also known as behavior contracts. A client agrees to engage (or not) in certain behavior in exchange for a later reward. A behavior must already be in a client’s repertoire in order to use contingency contracting. (Cooper, et.al, p.558). A goal of decreasing one’s golf score would involve behaviors that would need to be learned, rather than those (already in a client's repertoire) that simply need to be increased or decreased. Section E-4

Rate this question:
19.

You ask your supervisee to observe a client’s behavior and list some of the environmental conditions that precede the target behaviors. Which is the LEAST observable/measurable?
- A.
  
  There were four others in the room.
- B.
  
  The tension was palpable.
- C.
  
  The room was well lit; the shades were open.
- D.
  
  The students were sitting and completing a writing assignment.
Correct Answer
B. The tension was palpable.

Explanation
Environmental variables often include who is present, what is present, what time or activity in which the behavior takes place. The number of people in a room, whether the shades are open and what activity is expected are all observable/measurable. The tension in a room may be perceptible, but needs to be better defined. I-2 Section I

Rate this question:
20.

All of the following are parts of setting up a self-management system EXCEPT:
- A.
  
  Self-evaluation- determining if procedures are effective in reaching a set standard
- B.
  
  Selecting Procedures- ability to select systems for changing one’s own behavior
- C.
  
  Implementation- being able to follow the plan and reinforce one’s own behavior
- D.
  
  Incompatibility - create competing contingencies from ones that maintain one’s own behavior
Correct Answer
A. Self-evaluation- determining if procedures are effective in reaching a set standard

Explanation
The only way to determine if a procedure works is to implement it. Self-evaluation is certainly part of self-management, but you don’t know what will be effective until you’ve implemented your plan and have some data to evaluate. See Cooper chapter 27. Section F

Rate this question:
21.

Based on the graph below, what is the BEST antecedent intervention?
- A.
  
  High-p
- B.
  
  Premack principle
- C.
  
  Differential reinforcement
- D.
  
  NCR
Correct Answer
D. NCR

Explanation
NCR is the only antecedent intervention listed that addresses the function of the behavior (attention). High-p and Premack principle would be more appropriate with a different function of the behavior. Differential reinforcement is not an antecedent intervention. J-15 (Mayer, 651-655) Section J

Rate this question:
22.

Environmental variables that are antecedent to behavior need to be observable and measurable. Relevant environmental variables for “hitting” behavior might include all of the following, EXCEPT:
- A.
  
  A student then hits back
- B.
  
  A fire alarm rang
- C.
  
  A teacher gave a hug
- D.
  
  A compliment was offered
Correct Answer
A. A student then hits back

Explanation
Hitting back is a consequence of the behavior rather than an antecedent event. The other answers are simple descriptions of conditions that could observably and measurably precede behavior. I-2 Section I

Rate this question:
23.

Which of the following involves the learner emitting a response following the presentation of instructions or a discriminative stimulus, where only one opportunity is given for response?
- A.
  
  Free Operant Training
- B.
  
  Discrete Trial Training
- C.
  
  Incidental Teaching
- D.
  
  The Keller Plan
Correct Answer
B. Discrete Trial Training

Explanation
Discrete trial training involves the presentation of a stimulus/stimuli, prompts if needed, and then a single opportunity for response and reinforcement before moving to the next trial. The response is recorded. Free operant means that there are no constraints (or few) and allows for responses to be emitted freely. Incidental teaching is the manipulation of the natural environment to create MOs to facilitate teaching. The Keller Plan is another name for PSI, which is another teaching method. D-08 (Mayer, 361) Section D

Rate this question:
24.

Shaping is most commonly used with which verbal operant?
- A.
  
  Echoic
- B.
  
  Tact
- C.
  
  Intraverbal
- D.
  
  Mand
Correct Answer
A. Echoic

Explanation
Echoic training uses imitation to help learners develop sounds that will eventually, through shaping, be used to form words. The words learned through echoic training are then transferred to more complex verbal operants. D-10 (Mayer, 381) Section D

Rate this question:
25.

Which answer describes latency?
- A.
  
  The time between one swallow and the next
- B.
  
  The time that it takes you to step after the “walk” sign illuminates
- C.
  
  The time that it takes to get to the office window after your name is called
- D.
  
  The time that it takes to run around a track after the starter pistol has sounded
Correct Answer
B. The time that it takes you to step after the “walk” sign illuminates

Explanation
Latency is the time between a stimulus and the beginning of a response. Basically, how long does it take someone to respond (Cooper, et. al, 2007, p.80). A-4 Section A

Rate this question:
26.

Greenwood, et. al (1974) concluded that rules + feedback + group and individual consequences were effective in changing classroom behavior, while rules alone were not. Which is the most appropriate conclusion?
- A.
  
  Rules should not be used.
- B.
  
  Rules and feedback should always be paired with group and individual consequences.
- C.
  
  Group contingencies may be most effective when combined with individual consequences.
- D.
  
  Rules and feedback may be more effective when combined with group contingencies.
Correct Answer
D. Rules and feedback may be more effective when combined with group contingencies.

Explanation
Each experiment adds to the collective information. An article’s conclusion is just part of that information and doesn’t usually supercede all experiments before it. Instead of deciding that an experiment’s results will always be relevant to all similar situations or behaviors, scientists generally take a more cautionary approach. Key words are that a study “suggests” an outcome or that it’s conclusions “may” be informative for future interventions. B-2 Section B

Rate this question:
27.

Which of the following is NOT a strategy likely to promote generalization?
- A.
  
  Duplicate the generalization setting in the training environment
- B.
  
  Teach a range of stimulus conditions and relevant responses.
- C.
  
  Work with mediators in the natural environment.
- D.
  
  Use behavior traps to create contingencies.
Correct Answer
A. Duplicate the generalization setting in the training environment

Explanation
It is important that the training environment be similar to the natural environment, but unimportant stimuli should be varied to promote generalization in the presence of arbitrary, irrelevant stimuli. J-11(Cooper, Chapter 28) Section J

Rate this question:
28.

If an “X” represents the observation of a behavior and an “O” represents the absence of behavior, what is the most appropriate IOA formula to use for the above data?
- A.
  
  Total count IOA
- B.
  
  Unscored IOA
- C.
  
  Exact count IOA
- D.
  
  Scored interval IOA
Correct Answer
B. Unscored IOA

Explanation
The trial-based behavior chart shows 8/10 trials in which the behavior occurred. With trial-based frequencies of behavior over 70%, unscored IOA should be used. This makes intuitive sense, as two observers are likely to agree that a behavior is occurring if the behavior actually does occur most of the time. It is less likely that the observers will see the behavior NOT occurring (Cooper, et. al, 2007, p. 119).A-8 Section A

Rate this question:
29.

An operational definition is:
- A.
  
  The same as a discriminated operant
- B.
  
  A description of the behaviors that “operate” on the environment
- C.
  
  An explanation of a behavior’s rate
- D.
  
  The same as a qualitative definition
Correct Answer
B. A description of the behaviors that “operate” on the environment

Explanation
Behaviors “operate” on, or affect the environment (Mayer, p.68). When these operations are defined with observable/measurable terms, we have an operational definition. We (ABAexams) go a little further and try to include the effect of these behaviors in the definition, such as “...this behavior often results in escape.”

Rate this question:
30.

Maintaining professional competence is part of the Professional and Ethical Code for Behavior Analysts. Which is NOT a listed way to maintain competence?
- A.
  
  Supervision activities
- B.
  
  Attend conferences and conventions
- C.
  
  Coursework
- D.
  
  Maintaining professional credentials
Correct Answer
A. Supervision activities

Explanation
Supervision is optional. The others are some of the ways to maintain competence that are listed in the Ethical Code. Section Ethics

Rate this question:
31.

When using modeling as a response prompt, it is important that the learner possesses the ability to do all of the following EXCEPT:
- A.
  
  Imitate the model
- B.
  
  Follow verbal directions
- C.
  
  Attend to the model
- D.
  
  Perform component behaviors
Correct Answer
B. Follow verbal directions

Explanation
The learner does not need to be able to follow verbal directions in order to respond to a modeled prompt since the model prompt involves the model performing the behavior and the learner imitating it. Therefore, the learner must be able to observe the model, imitate the model and perform the components of the desired behavior. D-04 (Cooper, 402) Section D

Rate this question:
32.

Which is the best description of environmental variables around screaming?
- A.
  
  Before Hannah screamed, there were 4 peers present who were standing in line. The teacher announced the line leader.
- B.
  
  Before Hannah screamed, an adult was being careful not to upset Hannah as 4 other students stood in line. The teacher announced the line leader.
- C.
  
  Before Hannah screamed, 4 peers were standing nervously. The teacher announced the line leader.
- D.
  
  After Hannah screamed, 1 peer also screamed and the teacher went crazy.
Correct Answer
A. Before Hannah screamed, there were 4 peers present who were standing in line. The teacher announced the line leader.

Explanation
We are looking for the most observable/measurable antecedent variables that occur close in time to “screaming.” Who is present, what they are doing or saying and when they are doing it, might be relevant. Judgments about what people are feeling are not useful, unless they can be better described in observable/measurable terms. I-2 Section I

Rate this question:
33.

Jenny previously engaged in high rates of aggression in order to gain access to preferred items. Now she receives 5 minutes of access to her preferred items every hour that she is at school. What procedure is being used with Jenny?
- A.
  
  NCR
- B.
  
  DRO
- C.
  
  FCT
- D.
  
  Extinction
Correct Answer
A. NCR

Explanation
Jenny is being provided access to the preferred items non-contingently (NCR) as the scenario does not state she must go 60 minutes without aggression (DRO), or communicate her want for preferred items (FCT). Additionally, no reinforcement is being withheld, so extinction is not in effect. D-20 (Mayer, 558-562) Section D

Rate this question:
34.

A child client spits out their food quite frequently. The intervention team determines that the client’s goals should include an increase in food bites per session, as well as an increase in the amount of time that food stays in the client’s mouth. Which combination of dimensions would be most appropriate to measure?
- A.
  
  Frequency and IRT
- B.
  
  Rate and IRT
- C.
  
  Rate and latency
- D.
  
  Frequency and duration
Correct Answer
B. Rate and IRT

Explanation
An increase in bites PER session indicates a ratio, as opposed to a simple frequency count. The goal has to do with the duration of the food in the mouth. Since “rate and duration” is not an answer, the best answer is “Rate and IRT.” This is because increasing the IRT between “spitting behaviors” will have the effect of keeping food in the mouth longer. I-3 Section I

Rate this question:
35.

Teeth grinding occurs for 10 seconds and then again after 11 seconds, 9 more seconds and finally after ten more seconds. The average IRT is:
- A.
  
  30 seconds
- B.
  
  10 seconds
- C.
  
  40 seconds
- D.
  
  13.33 seconds
Correct Answer
B. 10 seconds

Explanation
The times between responses are 11 seconds (from the first to second responses), 9 seconds (between 2nd and 3rd responses) and 10 seconds (between 3rd and 4th responses). 11+9+10 is 30 seconds. Divide this by 3 (because we had three inter-response intervals), in order to average them. The result is a 10-second average IRT. The 10-second duration of the first behavior is not part of the time between responses; it is a confounding variable. A-5 Section A

Rate this question:
36.

Two parents begin to admonish their child for thumb-sucking. Although thumb-sucking decreases in their presence, the parents learn that their child sucks his thumb more often at preschool. This unwanted effect of punishment is known as a/an/the:
- A.
  
  Behavioral contrast effect
- B.
  
  Matching law
- C.
  
  Non-contingent reinforcement effect
- D.
  
  Negative reinforcement effect
Correct Answer
A. Behavioral contrast effect

Explanation
The technical definition of behavioral contrast is that a change on one component of a multiple schedule is accompanied by a change in the opposite direction on the unaltered schedule (Cooper, et. al, p.691). In simpler terms, when you increase behavior on one multiple schedule, the behavior on the other schedule decreases. So, stopping the thumb-sucking at home may have the opposite effect at school. C-2 Section C

Rate this question:
37.

Supervising BCBAs receive a 10% commission on billable hours that their RBTs report, as well as their standard salary. The RBTs are paid $20/hour and keep track of their own hours. What might be the problem with these policies?
- A.
  
  The commission may not be a great enough incentive to attract BCBAs.
- B.
  
  The commission and hourly tracking may encourage and promote unethical behavior.
- C.
  
  The RBTs are being overpaid.
- D.
  
  The BCBAs should not be directly supervising the RBTs.
Correct Answer
B. The commission and hourly tracking may encourage and promote unethical behavior.

Explanation
Section 1.04(a) of the Ethical Code states that “Behavior analysts are truthful and honest and arrange the environment to promote truthful and honest behavior in others.” The incentive commission described above may encourage BCBAs to increase the billable hours for RBTs, rather than report accurate values. The RBTs may also have an incentive to “pad” their hours, if no one is checking the veracity of their reporting. The other answers are false, or irrelevant. Section Ethics

Rate this question:
38.

One observer notes 4,5,4 and 5 behaviors. A second observer records 4,6,3 and 5 behaviors. The total count IOA would be:
- A.
  
  100%
- B.
  
  90%
- C.
  
  75%
- D.
  
  50%
Correct Answer
A. 100%

Explanation
Total count IOA is simply the smallest total over the largest total. Of course, this division is then multiplied by 100 to provide a percentage. For this question, the total for the two observers is 18 for one observer and 18 for the other. 18/18 *100 = 100%. This scenario is a good illustration of how a total count IOA calculation may overestimate agreement. A-8 Section A

Rate this question:
39.

Seth is a 14-year-old male with developmental delays who lives in a group home setting. Seth receives an allowance for completing household chores and helping other members in his household. Once a week he goes on community outings to a shopping center. Based on this information what would be the most socially valid goal for Seth?
- A.
  
  Purchasing items at a store
- B.
  
  Using public transportation
- C.
  
  Cooking personal meals
- D.
  
  Dressing himself
Correct Answer
A. Purchasing items at a store

Explanation
Social validity of goals is based upon the relevance of that goal for the individual’s life. Based on this scenario, Seth receives money for chores he does and goes to the store weekly. Being able to spend his money for wants or needs would be socially valid. J-08 (Cooper, 238) Section J

Rate this question:
40.

Which is a form of FCT (Functional Communication Training)?
- A.
  
  High-P (High Probability Request Sequence)
- B.
  
  NCR (Noncontingent Reinforcement)
- C.
  
  PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)
- D.
  
  Intraverbals
Correct Answer
C. PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)

Explanation
High-P, NCR and FCT are all antecedent interventions, but the use of PECS is a form of FCT. FCT takes advantage of MOs through MAND training, not intraverbals. F-7 Section F

Rate this question:
41.

Which is NOT true of this cumulative graph?
- A.
  
  No responses were recorded on Tuesday
- B.
  
  The responses from Tuesday through Thursday were 6
- C.
  
  Responses on Monday were 1
- D.
  
  Friday saw 2 responses
Correct Answer
B. The responses from Tuesday through Thursday were 6

Explanation
A cumulative graph adds each new response onto the graph. Flat lines mean no new responses occurred and the graph cannot have a downward trend. The total responses from Tuesday to Thursday are 3; not 6. The other answers are true. A-11 Section A

Rate this question:
42.

In order for a novel behavior to be a result of imitation training, the behavior must have which of the following qualities?
- A.
  
  Formal similarity, immediacy, model, reinforcement.
- B.
  
  Controlled relation, immediacy, formal similarity, model.
- C.
  
  Model, controlled relation, prompts, reinforcement.
- D.
  
  Immediacy, controlled relation, prompts, formal similarity.
Correct Answer
B. Controlled relation, immediacy, formal similarity, model.

Explanation
Imitation involves a model (planned or unplanned) demonstrating a skill, the learner performing the behavior immediately following with formal similarity (resembles model). A controlled relation means that a model can perform a novel behavior and evoke an imitative response from the learner. D-04 (Cooper, 413-414) Section D

Rate this question:
43.

Which statement is NOT true concerning graphic displays of behavioral data?
- A.
  
  Visual analysis cannot provide feedback for the people whose behavior they represent.
- B.
  
  Graphic displays of data provide the practitioner immediate access to the visual record of a client’s behavior.
- C.
  
  Visual analysis is a conservative method for determining the significance of behavior change.
- D.
  
  Continual contact with the data in a ready analyzable format allows practitioners and researchers to note variations in the behavior as they occur.
Correct Answer
A. Visual analysis cannot provide feedback for the people whose behavior they represent.

Explanation
Cooper, et al (2007) lists six primary benefits of graphic displays of behavioral data: 1) Plotting the data on a graph right after the observation period allows immediate access to the visual record of the client’s behavior. 2) Continual contact with the data in a ready analyzable format allows practitioners and researchers to note variations in the behavior as they occur. 3) Graphs can be used as judgement aids that help the practitioner interpret the results of a treatment or study. 4) Visual analysis is a conservative way in which to determine the significance of behavior change. 5) Graphs encourage independent judgments rather than having to rely on statistical manipulation. 6) Visual analysis can provide feedback for the people whose behavior it represents. (p.128) H-3 Section H

Rate this question:
44.

Staying late at work by yourself, you are putting your coffee cup in the sink, and notice a sign that says “Your mother doesn’t work here. Please clean up your own mess.” In response, you wash your cup. This is an example of:
- A.
  
  A behavioral contract
- B.
  
  A rule
- C.
  
  Behavioral contrast
- D.
  
  Contingency-governed behavior
Correct Answer
B. A rule

Explanation
The sign is stating a rule, or instruction. There is no immediate consequence from others, as no one is around. Behavior that contacts some delayed reinforcement is said to be rule-governed. Cooper 2007, p. 703. E-3 Section E

Rate this question:
45.

Rick noticed that his friends gave him sympathy and stopped by more often when he complained of ailments. Rick asks you to help him understand why he complains. Which answer is the MOST behavior analytic?
- A.
  
  “You’re trying to get attention from your friends.”
- B.
  
  “You’re depressed.”
- C.
  
  “Your recent divorce has got you down.”
- D.
  
  “Your cortisol levels are way too high.”
Correct Answer
A. “You’re trying to get attention from your friends.”

Explanation
We often talk of the function of behavior in ABA. This is the layman’s equivalent of explaining “why” a behavior happens. If a behavior results in attention, it is likely a reinforcer. The other answers are not behavior-analytic. G-5 Section G

Rate this question:
46.

When mom is home, Joan asks to have dessert, but when dad is home; she doesn’t. This is:
- A.
  
  Differential reinforcement
- B.
  
  The matching law
- C.
  
  Stimulus delta
- D.
  
  Stimulus discrimination
Correct Answer
D. Stimulus discrimination

Explanation
The difference in behavior is a difference between two parents, or settings or schedules of reinforcement. This describes stimulus discrimination. In order for this to be a question of differential reinforcement, one behavior in a class would be reinforced while another is not. A relevant example here might be giving Joan dessert when she says “Please,” but refusing her when she says “Gimmie ice cream.” E-2 Section E

Rate this question:
47.

Punishment procedures may include the removal of reinforcers. Withholding which of the following is MOST likely to be unethical?
- A.
  
  Primary reinforcers, such as a sandwich, water, or warmth
- B.
  
  Secondary reinforcers, such as attention, a cookie or some juice
- C.
  
  Primary reinforcers, such as attention, a cookie or some juice
- D.
  
  Secondary reinforcers, such as a sandwich, water, or warmth
Correct Answer
A. Primary reinforcers, such as a sandwich, water, or warmth

Explanation
Primary reinforcers are also known as unconditioned reinforcers. These are phylogenic. That is, people are born needing regulated temperature, food, water and oxygen. These also relate to the unconditioned motivating operations (UMOs). Secondary reinforcers are also called conditioned reinforcers. D-15 (Mayer, Chapter 29) Section D

Rate this question:
48.

Josie tries to be a helpful BCBA. He works for a county Office of Education and has become known as an expert in behavior analysis. Josie’s coworkers agree that he wants to help everyone, but they say that Josie becomes involved in a case and then is distracted by the next one. This tends to leave the clients with less than optimal services. This may be an ethical problem of Josie’s:
- A.
  
  Aptitude
- B.
  
  Integrity
- C.
  
  Confidentiality
- D.
  
  Boundaries of competence
Correct Answer
B. Integrity

Explanation
This is a problem of integrity. Basically, being honest and doing what you say that you will do. Section 1.04(c) of the Ethical Code states, “Behavior analysts follow through on obligations and contractual and professional commitments with high quality work and refrain from making professional commitments they cannot keep.” Section Ethics

Rate this question:
49.

Quinn wants to evaluate the effect that increasing direct service hours has on a client’s aggressive behavior. In order to demonstrate a significant effect, it would be best to intervene when the aggression is:
- A.
  
  Variable
- B.
  
  Descending
- C.
  
  Ascending
- D.
  
  Unstable
Correct Answer
C. Ascending

Explanation
Stable data would be another choice, but that wasn’t an option. When a stable data pattern is not an option we must select a trend that is going in the opposite direction of what we are trying to do, so that the effect can be seen in the change. K-07 (Cooper, p.168) Section K

Rate this question:
50.

Elijah, an 8-year-old boy, has an issue with verbal aggression and often argues with his parents when they correct his behavior. Elijah says his parents yell at him and that is why he becomes upset. The function of the behavior is identified as escape/avoidance. A DRA program is developed with a replacement behavior of requesting to go to his room for 5-minutes, and reinforced by allowing Elijah this break. In order to further support this treatment procedure, what additional goal should Elijah have?
- A.
  
  Elijah will progressively reduce the length of time he spends on a break, until he no longer requires the use of breaks.
- B.
  
  Elijah will accept corrective feedback from his parents without verbal aggression.
- C.
  
  Elijah will communicate his feelings to his parents in a calm voice.
- D.
  
  Elijah will provide contingent praise when his parents provide him with a break as requested.
Correct Answer
D. Elijah will provide contingent praise when his parents provide him with a break as requested.

Explanation
Elijah providing his parents with contingent praise for allowing a break, will increase their support of the program and his future progress. K-08 (p. 494) Behavior analysts are most often not the persons that interact most frequently with clients. When parents, guardians, teachers, bosses, etc. are given reinforcement for their participation in the plan, they are much more likely to continue the intervention. Section K

Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

Current Version
Jul 23, 2021

Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team
Feb 25, 2020

Quiz Created by

Featured Quizzes

Can You Guess These Asian's Nationality? Can You Guess These Asian's Nationality?

BTS Quiz: Who Is Your BTS Soulmate? BTS Quiz: Who Is Your BTS Soulmate?

Which Premier League Team Should I Support? Which Premier League Team Should I Support?

Articles Quiz With Answers Articles Quiz With Answers

What Video Game Should I Play? Quiz What Video Game Should I Play? Quiz

What Ethnicity Do I Look Like? Quiz What Ethnicity Do I Look Like? Quiz

Back to top

Newest BCBA® Exam #3

Katherine recently became ill and it has become clear that she is not able to continue providing services for her clients. Assuming Katherine has been providing ethical services to her clients this will not be an issue because:

In order to find out how many times Travis passed the basketball, one would measure:

The first thing to do when initiating a new case is to:

Beth is a BCBA at a residential facility for adolescent individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder. She is currently writing a behavior plan for a 16-year-old female whose goals include independent living skills. When writing the plan, Beth should ensure which of the following?

Mason just finished cleaning his room. After his Dad sees his room, he tells Mason “Give me a high five.” To which Mason responds by giving his Dad a high five. Which verbal behavior did Mason demonstrate when he gave his father a high five?

Faith brings home a point sheet every day from school. As long as the point sheet indicates that she didn’t have any tantrums that day, her mother allows her to pick from a special “treat box.” What DR procedure is this mother using?

Which is the most observable/measurable behavior?

Which of the following goals is observable and measurable?

George’s behavior intervention plan continually changed in practice over the course of the school year, although the written plan was not updated from the original. This event violates which dimension of ABA?

One way to describe a behavioral cusp is:

Ethical considerations are NOT:

Behavior analysts rely on professionally-derived knowledge that is based on:

Your client would like to stop drinking. He reports to you that he does well in most situations, but when he goes to his local bar, he usually has a drink. You suggest:

Which would NOT be appropriate for contingency contracting?

You ask your supervisee to observe a client’s behavior and list some of the environmental conditions that precede the target behaviors. Which is the LEAST observable/measurable?

All of the following are parts of setting up a self-management system EXCEPT:

Based on the graph below, what is the BEST antecedent intervention?

Environmental variables that are antecedent to behavior need to be observable and measurable. Relevant environmental variables for “hitting” behavior might include all of the following, EXCEPT:

Which of the following involves the learner emitting a response following the presentation of instructions or a discriminative stimulus, where only one opportunity is given for response?

Shaping is most commonly used with which verbal operant?

Which answer describes latency?

Greenwood, et. al (1974) concluded that rules + feedback + group and individual consequences were effective in changing classroom behavior, while rules alone were not. Which is the most appropriate conclusion?

Which of the following is NOT a strategy likely to promote generalization?

If an “X” represents the observation of a behavior and an “O” represents the absence of behavior, what is the most appropriate IOA formula to use for the above data?

An operational definition is:

Maintaining professional competence is part of the Professional and Ethical Code for Behavior Analysts. Which is NOT a listed way to maintain competence?

When using modeling as a response prompt, it is important that the learner possesses the ability to do all of the following EXCEPT:

Which is the best description of environmental variables around screaming?

Jenny previously engaged in high rates of aggression in order to gain access to preferred items. Now she receives 5 minutes of access to her preferred items every hour that she is at school. What procedure is being used with Jenny?

Teeth grinding occurs for 10 seconds and then again after 11 seconds, 9 more seconds and finally after ten more seconds. The average IRT is:

Two parents begin to admonish their child for thumb-sucking. Although thumb-sucking decreases in their presence, the parents learn that their child sucks his thumb more often at preschool. This unwanted effect of punishment is known as a/an/the:

Supervising BCBAs receive a 10% commission on billable hours that their RBTs report, as well as their standard salary. The RBTs are paid $20/hour and keep track of their own hours. What might be the problem with these policies?

One observer notes 4,5,4 and 5 behaviors. A second observer records 4,6,3 and 5 behaviors. The total count IOA would be:

Which is a form of FCT (Functional Communication Training)?

Which is NOT true of this cumulative graph?

In order for a novel behavior to be a result of imitation training, the behavior must have which of the following qualities?

Which statement is NOT true concerning graphic displays of behavioral data?

Staying late at work by yourself, you are putting your coffee cup in the sink, and notice a sign that says “Your mother doesn’t work here. Please clean up your own mess.” In response, you wash your cup. This is an example of:

Rick noticed that his friends gave him sympathy and stopped by more often when he complained of ailments. Rick asks you to help him understand why he complains. Which answer is the MOST behavior analytic?

When mom is home, Joan asks to have dessert, but when dad is home; she doesn’t. This is:

Punishment procedures may include the removal of reinforcers. Withholding which of the following is MOST likely to be unethical?

Quinn wants to evaluate the effect that increasing direct service hours has on a client’s aggressive behavior. In order to demonstrate a significant effect, it would be best to intervene when the aggression is: