Reference no: EM133897902

Question 

Do you hypothesize that the target behavior is automatically or socially mediated? Why?

Based on the observations, the jumping behavior is socially mediated. Out of the three socially mediated behaviors, the data showed that attention or tangible was obtained when the jumping behavior occurred. Wrigley received pets and sign language signals that resulted in attention and was given a toy to play with.

What do you hypothesize is the function of your target behavior? Why? Provide specific examples.

Attention seemed to be the most significant function that followed the behavior. When she jumped to get a pet, she would receive attention by me physically redirecting her to the ground; she would jump on the cedar chest, which she was given a sign language signal to get down, as well as when she pawed at me to pet her, I did and then gave the signal to get down.

Is your target behavior positively or negatively reinforced? Why?

The behavior is being positively reinforced because similar consequences occur on a repeat (sign language, physical redirection, etc.), and the behavior continues.

What other behaviors may be in the same response class as the target behavior?

Whining, Barking, scratching at objects. All these serve the same purpose: getting attention from me or another person.

Identify one or more potential motivating operations that could influence your target behavior. Identify if each is an establishing or abolishing operation and why.

Based on the data and the fact that Wrigley is a deaf dog, deprivation is the key factor in this behavior. When someone has been out of proximity for a period of time and then comes within her eyesight, an establishing operation comes into effect. Not having the sense of hearing causes her other senses to become heightened, and when she makes visual contact, her need for attention becomes increased.