ABA Exam CoachLessons · G. Behavior-Change Procedures
G.6 · Simple and conditional discriminations
Is the right answer always the same picture, or does it depend on what you just heard? That one question tells you whether you're looking at a simple or a conditional discrimination, so let's learn to spot it fast.
Key takeaway
In a simple discrimination (three-term contingency), one stimulus is always the SD and the others are always S-deltas. In a conditional discrimination (four-term contingency), which comparison is correct depends on a sample or contextual stimulus, as in matching-to-sample. To design either one, use differential reinforcement with planned prompt or stimulus fading. To check that the intended stimulus is in control, counterbalance positions and rotate samples so you aren't fooled by position or order cues.
In a simple discrimination (three-term contingency), one stimulus is always the SD and the others are always S-deltas. In a conditional discrimination (four-term contingency), which comparison is correct depends on a sample or contextual stimulus, as in matching-to-sample. To design either one, use differential reinforcement with planned prompt or stimulus fading. To check that the intended stimulus is in control, counterbalance positions and rotate samples so you aren't fooled by position or order cues.
Members get the full lesson video, notes and a 5-question test
The video walks through the idea, worked examples, the trap people fall into and an exam-style question. The notes and the checkpoint come with it, and your results feed your Where to focus plan.