The first step in the treatment of a problem behavior is to:
A) eliminate the reinforcer for the problem behavior
B) conduct a functional assessment
C) select a punisher that will be effective in decreasing the problem behavior
D) remove the antecedents that are increasing the likelihood of the behavior occurring

Question

​The first step in the treatment of a problem behavior is to:
A) ​eliminate the reinforcer for the problem behavior
B) ​conduct a functional assessment
C) ​select a punisher that will be effective in decreasing the problem behavior
D) ​remove the antecedents that are increasing the likelihood of the behavior occurring

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Conducting a functional assessment is the first step in treating a problem behavior. This assessment helps to identify the purpose or function of the behavior and allows for the development of a treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of the behavior. Eliminating the reinforcer, selecting a punisher, or removing antecedents may be part of the treatment plan, but they are not the first step.

​The First Step in the Treatment of a Problem Behavior

The First Step in the Treatment of a Problem Behavior