Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What is the specific name for the over-correction procedure mentioned above?

1. Positive punishment

2. Negative punishment

3. Shaping

4. Positive reinforcement

The correct answer is: Positive punishment

The term "over-correction" specifically refers to a behavior modification strategy that involves using a corrective procedure to reduce undesired behavior by requiring an individual to engage in a behavior that is equal to or greater than the undesired behavior. This approach is typically categorized under positive punishment because it involves adding a consequence following an undesired behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. In over-correction, there are generally two components: restitution and positive practice. Restitution requires the individual to restore the environment to its original state after a behavior that caused damage or disruption, while positive practice involves practicing the appropriate behavior to reinforce desired behaviors. Understanding that positive punishment involves the addition of a stimulus to decrease behavior clarifies why "over-correction" falls under this specific category. This is distinct from the other methods available in the choices, as shaping focuses on gradually reinforcing successive approximations to desired behavior, while negative punishment involves removing a stimulus to decrease a behavior and positive reinforcement entails adding a stimulus to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior.