Which items are cited as examples of the operational definition of the target behavior(s)?

• A. MSWO, Paired Choice, Preference checks
• B. Functional analysis, ABC recording
• C. Time sampling, event recording
• D. Interview and rating scales

Answer: (A)

Defining a target behavior in observable, measurable terms means spelling out exactly what counts as the behavior and how you’ll observe and record it. The group of MSWO, Paired Choice, and Preference checks exemplifies this because they yield concrete, observable data about what stimuli are preferred and likely to reinforce behavior. By identifying which items a person consistently chooses or favors, you establish objective criteria for the motivating consequences that can be tied to the behavior, helping to specify the environment and contingencies around it. The other approaches focus on function, general data collection methods, or rely on indirect reports, and don’t provide the same precise, observable description of the behavior and its reinforcement.