Free BCBA sample questions

Correct answer: Implement a time-based schedule of assistance, where CNAs proactively offer and assist residents with toileting every 2-3 hours during the night, combined with a positive reinforcement system for CNAs for completing these rounds.

This plan is function-based and antecedent-focused. The time-based schedule (an antecedent intervention similar to noncontingent reinforcement) addresses the establishing operation (needing to use the restroom) before the problem behavior (unassisted walking) occurs. It is proactive rather than reactive. The positive reinforcement component for staff shifts the contingencies from negative reinforcement (avoiding reprimands) to positive reinforcement, which is more effective and ethical for performance management.

Correct answer: Propose a modular intervention approach. Develop a core set of foundational social skills (e.g., active listening) and several optional modules based on the distinct goals identified in the assessment (e.g., 'Assertive Communication', 'Collaborative Problem-Solving'). Train staff to implement the core skills and one optional module, allowing families and teens to choose the most relevant module for them.

This option represents the best synthesis of the competing demands. It respects the contextual constraint of limited staff training by focusing on a core set of skills. It honors client preferences and cultural variables by creating optional modules that align with the diverse goals identified. This modular approach is evidence-based and allows for a degree of individualization without requiring a fully unique plan for each adolescent, making it feasible within the center's resource constraints. It directly uses assessment data to inform intervention design, which is a hallmark of effective practice.

Correct answer: 6 contacts and 10 hours

For concentrated supervised fieldwork, the BACB requires a minimum of 6 supervisor contacts per supervisory period (calendar month) and supervision for 10% of the total fieldwork hours. In this case, with 100 total hours, the required supervision is 10% of 100, which is 10 hours. Therefore, the trainee needs a minimum of 6 contacts and 10 supervised hours.

Correct answer: Implement a time-based schedule of assistance, where CNAs proactively offer and assist residents with toileting every 2-3 hours during the night, combined with a positive reinforcement system for CNAs for completing these rounds.

This intervention is the most comprehensive and behavior-analytic. The time-based schedule of assistance is an antecedent intervention (specifically, noncontingent reinforcement or NCR-like procedure) that addresses the function of the behavior (access to restroom) by providing it proactively, thus reducing the motivation for residents to get up unassisted. The reinforcement system for the CNAs addresses the systemic/OBM issue of slow response times and competing contingencies. This dual approach addresses both the client and staff behavior, fits the context, and respects resident dignity.

Correct answer: Behavioral Skills Training (BST).

Behavioral Skills Training (BST) is an empirically validated training package that consists of four components: instructions, modeling, rehearsal (practice), and feedback. The scenario describes the exact implementation of BST to teach a new skill to the trainee. flowchart LR A[Instructions] --> B[Modeling] B --> C{Rehearsal} C --> D[Feedback] D -->|Needs Improvement| C D -->|Mastery| E[End]

Correct answer: Having the trainee rehearse the skill and providing immediate, corrective feedback.

Behavioral Skills Training (BST) consists of four components: instructions, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback. While all are important, the rehearsal (practice) and feedback components are the most critical for skill acquisition. This active responding allows the supervisor to assess the trainee's performance directly and provide immediate, behavior-specific feedback to shape the correct response, which is a hallmark of effective training.

Correct answer: Developing and co-signing a comprehensive supervision contract that clearly outlines expectations, responsibilities, and objectives.

A formal, written supervision contract is a foundational component of an effective supervisory relationship. It serves to clarify expectations for both the supervisor and supervisee, define roles and responsibilities, establish goals, and provide a framework for feedback and evaluation, thereby preventing misunderstandings and promoting a positive, productive relationship.

Correct answer: Developing and implementing a behavior skills training (BST) package focused on the new product's features and sales script.

A function-based approach to intervention requires matching the solution to the identified problem. The Performance Diagnostic Checklist (PDC-HS) indicated a deficit in skills and knowledge ('can't do' problem), not a motivation or contingency issue ('won't do' problem). Behavior Skills Training (BST) is an empirically validated method for teaching new skills, making it the most appropriate intervention to address a knowledge and skills deficit.

Correct answer: Interresponse Time (IRT)

Interresponse Time (IRT) is the measure of time that elapses between two consecutive instances of a response class. In this scenario, each question is an instance of the response class 'repetitive questioning.' Measuring the time from the end of the caregiver's answer (which signals the end of the prior event) to the start of the next question directly measures the IRT. Latency would measure the time from a specific antecedent (like the caregiver ending their answer) to the *first* question, not the time between questions. Duration would measure how long each question lasts, and rate measures the frequency over time.

Correct answer: It weakens experimental control because the behavior is not changing in a stepwise fashion that closely matches the criterion.

In a changing criterion design, experimental control is demonstrated when the behavior changes to closely match the specified criterion level for each phase. If the behavior consistently and significantly overshoots the criterion, it suggests that the criterion itself is not the primary variable controlling the behavior. While the behavior is changing in the desired direction, the lack of correspondence between the criterion and the level of responding weakens the demonstration of a functional relation.