Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

What is the outcome of effectively using shaping in behavior analysis?

1. The elimination of all undesirable behaviors

2. The development of a terminal behavior

3. Immediate reinforcement of every response

4. The reinforcement of only the initial steps in behavior

The correct answer is: The development of a terminal behavior

The development of a terminal behavior is the correct outcome of effectively using shaping in behavior analysis. Shaping is a technique used to teach new behaviors by reinforcing successive approximations toward a desired behavior. When a behavior analyst implements shaping, they start by reinforcing any behavior that resembles the target behavior, gradually requiring closer and closer approximations until the final desired behavior, or terminal behavior, is achieved. For instance, if the goal is to teach a child to say "hello," the initial reinforcement may be given for any vocalization, then for sounds that are more similar to "hello," and finally reserved for the correct pronunciation of "hello." This clearly outlines a pathway toward the specific target behavior through progressive reinforcement, thereby leading to the successful development of the terminal behavior. The other options do not accurately represent the primary outcome of shaping. The elimination of all undesirable behaviors is more aligned with strategies such as punishment or extinction rather than shaping, which focuses on developing new behaviors. Immediate reinforcement of every response is characteristic of continuous reinforcement strategies rather than shaping, which involves a gradual increase in criteria before reinforcement is given. Lastly, reinforcing only the initial steps in behavior would not achieve the ultimate aim of shaping, which is to lead to the final desired behavior, rather than stopping at