Introduction
If you are preparing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), it is crucial to comprehend fundamental ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) terminology. These terms serve as the foundational elements of your practice and are prevalent throughout the RBT examination. This guide elucidates key RBT terminology with straightforward definitions and examples, enabling trainees to confidently understand concepts they will utilize on a daily basis.
The Importance of RBT Terminology
Terminology in ABA is not merely technical jargon—it establishes the framework through which behavior analysts articulate, assess, and alter behavior. Lacking a solid vocabulary base, it becomes challenging to execute behavior plans, communicate effectively with BCBAs, or succeed in the RBT examination.
Top RBT Terms You Must Know
Here are the essential RBT terms every trainee needs to master:
1. Antecedent
Definition: An event or stimulus that occurs before a behavior and may trigger it.
Example: A teacher gives a direction (“Please sit down”) → the child sits down. The direction is the antecedent.
Why it matters: Understanding antecedents helps in identifying behavior triggers and designing interventions.
2. Behavior
Definition: Any observable and measurable action made by a living organism.
Example: Speaking, running, clapping, or tantruming are all behaviors.
Tip: Only observable actions count—thinking and feeling are not behaviors in the ABA context.
3. Consequence
Definition: The event that follows a behavior, influencing whether the behavior is likely to occur again.
Example: A child gets praise after cleaning up. The praise is the consequence.
Pro Tip: Not all consequences are punishments—some reinforce and increase future behavior.
4. Reinforcement
Definition: A consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
- Positive Reinforcement: Adding something pleasant (e.g., giving a toy).
- Negative Reinforcement: Removing something unpleasant (e.g., stopping a loud noise).
Example: A student gets a sticker for completing a worksheet (positive reinforcement).
5. Punishment
Definition: A consequence that reduces the likelihood of a behavior recurring.
- Positive Punishment: Adding something aversive (e.g., scolding).
- Negative Punishment: Taking away something pleasant (e.g., removing a tablet).
Caution: Punishment should be used ethically and only under the supervision of a BCBA.
6. Extinction
Definition: The process of withholding reinforcement for a previously reinforced behavior.
Example: If a child screams to get attention and the behavior is ignored, the behavior may reduce over time.
Note: Extinction can initially lead to an “extinction burst” where the behavior temporarily worsens.
7. Function of Behavior
Definition: The reason why a behavior occurs, usually categorized into four types:
- Attention – To gain social interaction.
- Escape – To avoid or get out of a task or situation.
- Access to Tangibles – To get a preferred item or activity.
- Sensory (Automatic) – Internal stimulation (e.g., hand flapping).
Knowing the function = better intervention.
8. Discriminative Stimulus (SD)
Definition: A stimulus that signals the availability of reinforcement for a particular behavior.
Example: A green light on a vending machine tells you the machine is working (SD for inserting money).
RBT Tip: SDs are often your instructions or cues given to the learner.
9. Prompting
Definition: A cue or assistance given to encourage the correct response.
Types of Prompts:
- Verbal
- Visual
- Gestural
- Model
- Physical
Goal: Use prompts as needed, then fade them over time for independence.
10. Prompt Fading
Definition: The systematic removal of prompts to encourage independent responding.
Example: Gradually moving from full physical prompts to light touches, then none at all.
11. Shaping
Definition: Reinforcing successive approximations toward a desired behavior.
Example: Reinforcing a child first for saying “muh,” then “milk,” then “I want milk.”
Why it’s useful: Great for teaching complex or speech-related skills.
12. Chaining
Definition: Breaking a complex behavior into smaller steps (links) and teaching them in sequence.
- Forward chaining: Teaching from first to last step.
- Backward chaining: Teaching from last step to first.
Example: Teaching hand washing step-by-step.
13. Task Analysis
Definition: Breaking down a complex skill into small, teachable steps.
Used for: Skills like brushing teeth, tying shoes, or preparing a snack.
14. Generalization
Definition: The ability to perform a learned behavior in different settings, with different people, or across different stimuli.
Example: A child who learns to say “hello” to their RBT also says it to their teacher and parent.
15. Maintenance
Definition: The ability to retain a learned behavior over time, even after teaching has stopped.
Tip: Periodic review helps maintain mastered skills.
16. Data Collection
Definition: Recording behavior systematically to evaluate progress and make decisions.
Types:
- Frequency (count)
- Duration (how long)
- Latency (time before behavior starts)
- Interval recording (partial/full)
RBTs must collect accurate and objective data daily.
17. Interobserver Agreement (IOA)
Definition: A measure of consistency between two observers collecting data on the same behavior.
High IOA = Reliable Data.
18. Baseline Data
Definition: Behavior data collected before intervention begins.
Why it matters: Helps determine whether an intervention is effective.
19. Behavior Reduction Plan (BRP)
Definition: A plan created by a BCBA to reduce problem behavior using ethical, research-based strategies.
RBT Role: Implement the plan, collect data, and report results.
20. Ethics Code (RBT)
Definition: RBTs follow the BACB Ethics Code, which includes:
- Maintaining client dignity
- Data privacy (HIPAA)
- Avoiding dual relationships
- Reporting concerns to supervisor
Learn more at: BACB Ethics Code for RBTs
Study Tips for Memorizing RBT Vocabulary
- Flashcards: Create digital or physical cards with terms and definitions.
- Practice Tests: Use RBT practice exams to reinforce terminology.
- Real-Life Scenarios: Apply the terms during your fieldwork or role-play with peers.
- Spaced Repetition: Review regularly over several weeks for long-term retention.
Internal Links to Help You Study
- Free RBT Practice Exam with Questions and Answers
- How to Pass the RBT Exam: Tips and Guide
- RBT vs BCBA: What’s the Difference?
Conclusion
Understanding and using essential RBT terminology is key to success in your training and professional work. These terms will appear throughout your RBT exam, your daily sessions with clients, and during supervision with a BCBA. By mastering them now, you’re building a solid foundation for a confident and ethical career in ABA therapy.
