In the context of behavior analysis, what is meant by "target behavior"?

In behavior analysis, the term "target behavior" refers specifically to the behavior that is the focus of a behavioral intervention or assessment. This can often include inappropriate behaviors identified for change or reduction, but it is not limited to only those types of behaviors. The fundamental aspect is that a target behavior is selected for observation and measurement because it is deemed important for the individual’s improvement or adjustment.

For instance, if a student is exhibiting aggressive behaviors in class, that behavior would be identified as a target behavior for intervention because addressing it is crucial for facilitating a better learning environment.

The other options, while related to behavior analysis, do not accurately define what a target behavior is. The behavior that is to be increased is not necessarily the same as a target behavior, as target behaviors can include both those to be increased and those to be decreased. Similarly, while the behavior with the highest frequency could be a target, it is not a requirement that the target behavior has to be the most frequent. Lastly, while social significance is a critical consideration when selecting target behaviors, not all target behaviors need to be the most socially significant; they simply need to be behaviors that can be measured and are essential in the context of the intervention goals.