Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What component is missing from the objective for Holly, who is learning to use a spoon to feed herself with applesauce?

1. Condition

2. Standard of performance

3. Measurement criteria

4. Reinforcement strategy

The correct answer is: Standard of performance

In this context, the objective for Holly's learning to use a spoon to feed herself with applesauce is lacking a clear standard of performance. The standard of performance provides a benchmark or criterion that defines what successful behavior looks like. It specifies how well Holly should be expected to perform the task to meet the learning goal, such as the number of successful attempts or the percentage of proficiency within a specific timeframe. Having a standard of performance is crucial in behavior analysis as it allows for measurable and observable outcomes. This helps in assessing whether she has mastered the skill of using a spoon effectively. For example, stating that Holly should be able to feed herself with a spoon 4 out of 5 times without assistance would provide a clear criterion to evaluate her progress. In this scenario, the other components, such as conditions defining the context under which the skill will be performed, measurement criteria outlining how data will be collected, and reinforcement strategies indicating how Holly will be rewarded for her successes, are not mentioned as missing. However, without a clear standard of performance, the objective remains vague and unmeasurable.