In ABA, what does the acronym "S-B-C" stand for?

The acronym "S-B-C" in the context of Applied Behavior Analysis stands for "Stimulus-Behavior-Consequence." This model is fundamental in understanding how behaviors are influenced and modified through the relationship between environmental stimuli and the resultant behavior, followed by the consequences of that behavior.

In this framework, a stimulus is any event or object in the environment that may elicit a behavior. The behavior itself is the action or response that occurs as a result of the stimulus. Finally, the consequence refers to the outcome or effect that follows the behavior, which can either reinforce or punish the behavior, influencing its future occurrence.

Understanding the S-B-C model is essential for practitioners in ABA as it provides a clear structure for analyzing and changing behaviors. By identifying the antecedents (stimuli) that trigger behaviors and evaluating the consequences that follow, behavior analysts can develop effective intervention strategies to modify undesired behaviors or promote desired ones.