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Operational Definitions, Observation, and Behavioral Recording in Applied Behavior Analysis

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Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis for Children with Autism

Part of the book series: Autism and Child Psychopathology Series ((ACPS))

Abstract

Behavior observation is an integral component in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) when supporting individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this chapter, we unpack the importance of selecting target behaviors, precisely defining target behaviors, and measuring target behaviors when designing behavior analytic assessment and intervention. We describe common strategies that are used to measure behavior including direct methods, derivative measures, and time sampling. Moreover, crucial elements of optimum behavior measurement including reliability, accuracy, and validity are delineated. Last, we describe strategies for calculating interobserver agreement (IOA), unpack differences, and highlight their importance when supporting individuals with ASD.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Art Dowdy, Stephanie Miodus & Mawule Sevon

  2. NeuroAbilities Healthcare, Voorhees Township, NJ, USA

    Kaori Nepo

  3. Melmark, Berwyn, PA, USA

    Shawn Quigley

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  1. Art Dowdy
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  2. Kaori Nepo
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  3. Stephanie Miodus
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  4. Shawn Quigley
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  5. Mawule Sevon
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Correspondence to Art Dowdy .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA

    Johnny L. Matson

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Dowdy, A., Nepo, K., Miodus, S., Quigley, S., Sevon, M. (2023). Operational Definitions, Observation, and Behavioral Recording in Applied Behavior Analysis. In: Matson, J.L. (eds) Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis for Children with Autism. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-27587-6_6

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