B-13 Rules Governed and Contingency Shaped Behavior

Question 1

Contingency Shape Behavior

Answer 1

Behavior is controlled by past contingencies directly experienced by the individual.

Ex: Wear coat when chilly because past experience has shown that if not worn then it’ll be uncomfortable

Most behaviors targeted in ABA is contingency shaped behavior by providing the contingency (reinforcement) to shape behavior

Question 2

Rule Governed Behavior

Answer 2

Behavior controlled by descriptions of the contingencies (verbal, written or oral), not direct experience with contingencies

Ex: I know not to lick doorknobs as I enter public buildings even though nobody has ever told me explicitly