An Operational Definition is a precise, detailed descriptionDescription in the context of behavior analysis refers to the process of collecting and organizing factual information about observed events, particularly in relation to the behaviors o... More of a behaviorBehavior refers to any activity or action that living organisms engage in, which can be observed, measured, and analyzed. It encompasses all interactions an organism has with its environment, inc... More in observable and measurable terms. It defines the behavior so clearly that anyone unfamiliar with the situation can observe and collect data on the behavior accurately and consistently. This ensures that multiple observers can agree when the behavior occurs, increasing the reliability of data collection.
Example
If the target behavior is “disruptive behavior,” an operational definition might be: “Disruptive behavior is defined as any instance when the student talks loudly to peers during instruction, leaves their seat without permission, or makes noises (e.g., tapping, humming) that interrupt the class. These instances must last for at least 5 seconds and occur more than twice in a 10-minute period.”