Which term is defined as the objective, measurable goal to address a specific skill deficit?

• A. Specific goal
• B. Protocol purpose & rationale
• C. Relevant SDs
• D. Step-by-step implementation process

Answer: (A)

A precise, measurable target that addresses a specific skill deficit guides how progress will be assessed and what counts as mastery. A specific goal is the objective that clearly states the exact behavior to be learned or increased and the criterion for mastery, making progress data straightforward to collect and interpret. This keeps the focus on a tangible target that can be observed and measured in ongoing sessions.

The other aspects describe parts of the intervention rather than the target itself: protocol purpose and rationale explains why a particular approach is used, not what the target is; relevant SDs are the stimuli that cue the behavior, not the goal; and the step-by-step implementation process covers how to carry out the plan, not the end target being aimed for. For example, if a child needs to improve requesting skills, a specific goal would specify the exact request form and the mastery criterion, such as requesting appropriately in 9 out of 10 opportunities.