Overview
This lecture explains the four main phases of behavior analytic interventions: baseline, intervention, generalization, and maintenance, including roles and data collection procedures.
Phases of Behavior Analytic Interventions
- Interventions target specific behaviors that need to be changed, following an assessment.
- Four main phases: baseline, intervention, generalization, and maintenance.
- Data is collected throughout all phases using line graphs.
Baseline Phase
- Collect data on the target behavior before any intervention is applied.
- Baseline data provides a comparison for later evaluating the intervention's effectiveness.
- No changes or reinforcements are introduced during baseline; just observation and recording.
Intervention Phase
- Implement the chosen behavior-change strategy (e.g., reinforcing hand-raising instead of calling out).
- Data continues to be collected on both the target (calling out) and replacement (hand-raising) behaviors.
- The intervention may use visual prompts or token systems as reinforcement.
- RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians) ensure intervention is applied consistently and collect data.
Generalization Phase
- Test if the behavior change occurs in different settings or with different people (e.g., substitute teacher, art class).
- Data is taken in these new settings to determine if additional intervention is needed for generalization.
Maintenance Phase
- Gradually reduce reinforcement and prompts over time, incorporating the behavior into regular routines.
- Return after some time to check if the improved behavior is maintained ("maintenance probe").
- Use intermittent reinforcement to encourage independence.
Roles and Responsibilities
- RBTs collect data, implement interventions, and report to supervisors throughout all phases.
- Supervisors provide oversight, instruction, and may conduct parts of the process.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Baseline — initial period of data collection before any intervention is applied.
- Intervention — implementation of strategies to change the target behavior.
- Generalization — ensuring the behavior change works in different settings or with different people.
- Maintenance — confirming the behavior change persists over time with less intervention.
- RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) — a professional collecting data, implementing interventions, under supervision.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the assessment section for more on behavior assessment.
- Practice collecting baseline and intervention data.
- Prepare for upcoming modules on graphing and research methods.