What are the components of the three-term contingency in behavior analysis?

The three-term contingency is a foundational concept in behavior analysis that outlines the relationship between events that can influence behavior. The correct components are Antecedent, Behavior, and Consequence.

In this model, the antecedent refers to the events or stimuli that occur before a behavior is exhibited. These can be environmental factors or specific cues that trigger the behavior. The behavior itself is the action or response of the individual, and it can be anything observable that we want to understand or change. Finally, the consequence is what follows the behavior, which can either reinforce or punish it, influencing the likelihood of the behavior being repeated in the future.

Together, these three components help practitioners understand how behaviors are learned, maintained, or altered based on the interactions between antecedents and consequences. This model underscores the importance of each part in shaping behavior, making it essential for effective behavior analysis and intervention strategies.