Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What defines mouthing behavior according to the provided information?

1. Placing a non-nutritive object in front of Luke

2. Luke touching objects with his lips

3. Luke placing his open mouth on a non-nutritive object

4. Luke chewing on toys for sensory input

The correct answer is: Luke placing his open mouth on a non-nutritive object

Mouthing behavior is defined as the act of placing one's mouth on objects, which entails the mouth being open and in contact with a non-nutritive object. This behavior often serves various purposes, such as exploration, sensory input, or self-soothing. In the context provided, the definition aligns closely with the concept of mouthing, which specifically refers to the action of the mouth making contact with an object, as described in the selected answer. The other options describe related but distinct actions. For instance, placing a non-nutritive object in front of someone does not illustrate the act of mouthing as it does not involve the mouth making contact with the object. Touching objects with the lips may involve a similar action, but it does not capture the full essence of mouthing since it lacks the aspect of the mouth being opened to create contact. Chewing on toys for sensory input, while indicative of a sensory seeking behavior, implies an active manipulation of the object and suggests incorporating biting or chewing rather than the specific act of mouthing where an object is merely placed in front of or against the mouth without the intent to chew. Thus, the chosen definition accurately captures the nature of mouthing behavior as it pertains to the context of