I.6: Apply a function-based approach (e.g., performance diagnostics) to assess and improve supervisee behavior.
Free practice questions for this part of the BCBA, with an explanation for every option.
Before choosing an intervention for an RBT's poor performance, a BCBA uses the Performance Diagnostic Checklist–Human Services (PDC-HS). What is the main purpose of this tool?
- A. To determine which variables (training, task clarification and prompting, resources, or consequences) are maintaining the performance problem, so the intervention can match the cause.Correct. The PDC-HS is a performance diagnostic that identifies the likely causes of a performance deficit so a function-based intervention can be chosen.
- B. To document poor performance as grounds for termination.Incorrect. Its purpose is improvement, not building a disciplinary record.
- C. To diagnose a clinical disorder in the staff member.Incorrect. It assesses environmental variables, not clinical disorders.
- D. To measure how satisfied clients are with the RBT.Incorrect. It assesses causes of staff performance, not client satisfaction.
An RBT implements a prompt-fading procedure with 100% accuracy whenever her supervisor asks her to show it. During ordinary sessions, observed covertly through a one-way mirror, her accuracy is around 40%. Which intervention is the BEST match for this pattern?
- A. Give her a more detailed written protocol.Incorrect. A protocol addresses knowledge or task clarity, which is not the deficit here.
- B. Look at the consequences and competing contingencies in ordinary sessions, and arrange reinforcement for correct implementation (for example, frequent feedback tied to integrity data).Correct. When the skill is present but not performed, the deficit is likely in consequences or competing contingencies, which calls for consequence-based intervention.
- C. Repeat the full behavioral skills training for prompt fading.Incorrect. She already has the skill, so more training does not address the problem.
- D. Assign her a different client.Incorrect. Changing clients avoids the problem and does not address what is maintaining it.
A PDC-HS interview shows that RBTs know the token-economy procedure and are motivated to use it, but token boards and reinforcers are often missing from session kits. What is the MOST function-based intervention?
- A. Give the RBTs refresher training on token economies.Incorrect. The RBTs already know the procedure, so training does not address the deficit.
- B. Reprimand RBTs who do not use the token boards.Incorrect. Punishment does not address the environmental barrier and is likely to hurt morale.
- C. Set up a system that keeps the needed materials stocked (for example, a kit checklist and restocking schedule).Correct. The diagnostic points to a deficit in resources and materials, so the intervention should make sure materials are available.
- D. Offer a bonus for using the token economy.Incorrect. Incentives cannot overcome missing materials.