On the use of the term 'frequency' in applied behavior analysis
James E Carr1, Melissa R Nosik1, Molli M Luke1
1Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|March 13, 2018
Summary
Applied behavior analysis faces a terminology issue where "frequency" is used for both "rate" and "count." This study found "frequency" predominantly means "count," recommending its use as a synonym for count in behavior analysis.
Area of Science:
- Behavior Analysis
- Scientific Terminology
Background:
- The term "frequency" in applied behavior analysis is ambiguously used as a synonym for both response rate and response count.
- This terminological ambiguity can lead to confusion in research and practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the predominant usage of the term "frequency" in contemporary applied behavior analysis literature.
- To provide guidance on the consistent and accurate use of "frequency" to resolve terminological issues.
Main Methods:
- A systematic survey of contemporary behavior-analytic journals was conducted.
- A review of prominent behavior-analytic textbooks was performed to analyze the usage of "frequency."
Main Results:
- The analysis revealed that "frequency" is predominantly used to refer to the "count" of responses, not the "rate."
- The findings indicate a clear trend in the literature favoring one definition over the other.
Conclusions:
- Behavior analysts are encouraged to adopt "frequency" as a consistent synonym for "count."
- Standardizing the use of "frequency" will enhance clarity and reduce ambiguity in applied behavior analysis.
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