Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What is the best method for displaying categorical data from a functional analysis?

1. Pie chart

2. Line graph

3. Bar graph

4. Scatter plot

The correct answer is: Bar graph

A bar graph is the best method for displaying categorical data from a functional analysis because it effectively illustrates the frequency or magnitude of different categories in a clear, visually accessible format. Each category is represented by a separate bar, allowing for easy comparison between the categories. This is particularly useful in functional analyses where the goal is to identify the different functions of behavior and measure their occurrence across various conditions. Bar graphs can display discrete data points effectively and can represent multiple categories side by side, such as various antecedents or consequences associated with a behavior. This clarity makes it easier for professionals to interpret results and make informed decisions based on the analysis. Other methods, such as pie charts, may visually represent proportions of a whole but do not convey the differences in frequency as effectively. Line graphs and scatter plots are typically used for continuous data and trends over time, which may not be as relevant for categorical data. Thus, the bar graph stands out as the most suitable choice for representing the specific data needs of a functional analysis.