Writing Homework Help

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 terms—stimulus class and response class.