Reinforcer Assessment
In Plain Language
Testing whether a consequence actually increases a behavior.
ABA Definition
A systematic evaluation of a stimulus’s reinforcing effectiveness by measuring responding when access is contingent on that response, often relative to a comparison condition.
Everyday Example
To know whether a loyalty benefit changes purchasing, you compare purchasing under clearly defined conditions.
ABA Example
A clinician evaluates whether contingent access to a selected activity increases a specified skill response.
How It May Be Used
Liking an activity and showing a reinforcement effect are different findings.