Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What is an example of avoidance behavior in a therapeutic setting?

1. Returning to task during a warning

2. Responding after being touched

3. Actively avoiding physical touch

4. Not engaging in the task anytime

The correct answer is: Returning to task during a warning

In a therapeutic setting, avoidance behavior can be exemplified by a client actively avoiding a situation or interaction that they find threatening or uncomfortable. In this case, an example is actively avoiding physical touch. This behavior often stems from anxiety, discomfort, or a negative experience associated with physical contact. When a client engages in avoidance behavior, they are typically exhibiting a desire to escape or prevent exposure to a specific stimulus that they perceive as aversive. The other options illustrate different forms of behavior that do not align with avoidance. For instance, returning to task during a warning indicates compliance and engagement rather than avoidance. Responding after being touched suggests a willingness to engage with the situation, while not engaging in the task anytime might reflect a lack of motivation instead of specific avoidance behavior towards a particular stimulus. Thus, the correct understanding of avoidance behavior in this context focuses on the active efforts to evade a triggering interaction, such as physical touch.