Conceptually Systematic refers to one of the seven dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which requires that all interventions and procedures used in behavior analysis be rooted in, and explained by, the underlying principles of behavior. The interventions should be clearly tied to the basic concepts of reinforcementReinforcement is a fundamental concept in Applied Behavior A..., punishment, stimulusStimulus is defined as any change in the environment or... controlControl in behavior analysis refers to the ab..., and other behavioral principles, ensuring consistency and replicability across different contexts.
Example
In an ABA program designed to decrease a child’s tantrums, the behavior analyst might use differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) as the intervention. The procedure is conceptually systematic because it is based on the principle of reinforcement—reinforcing the child for behaviors other than tantrums. The intervention’s design and explanation directly relate to the concept of reinforcement (providing reinforcement for alternative behaviors) while withholding reinforcement for the target (tantrum) behavior. This clear connection between the procedure and behavioral principles ensures the strategy can be understood, replicated, and evaluated based on ABA’s foundational concepts.