Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

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What is defined as an aversive stimulus?

A stimulus that reinforces behavior

A neutral stimulus that is paired with a reinforcer

A stimulus whose termination serves to reinforce behavior

An aversive stimulus is specifically defined in behavior analysis as a stimulus that an individual finds unpleasant or undesirable. In this context, the correct choice describes an aversive stimulus as one whose termination, or removal, serves to reinforce behavior. This concept is rooted in the principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors can be strengthened or increased through the removal of an aversive stimulus.

When a behavior results in the cessation of something unpleasant, it is likely to be repeated in the future. For instance, if a loud noise stops when a child completes a task, the removal of the noise (the aversive stimulus) reinforces the completion of the task, making it more likely that the child will engage in that behavior again.

Understanding this definition is crucial in applied behavior analysis as it helps practitioners recognize how to effectively modify behaviors by manipulating stimuli in the environment.

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A positive stimulus that increases frequency

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