The effect of reinforcer preference on functional analysis outcomes.

The team ran a standard functional analysis first. The results showed that problem behavior was multiply controlled.

Next they set up a quick concurrent-schedule test. The client could pick attention, toys, or escape. The team recorded which reinforcer the child worked hardest for.

They used that rank to build one clear treatment package.

The brief choice test gave a clean hierarchy. Attention topped the list for this child.

When treatment used the top reinforcer, problem behavior dropped fast. One reinforcer did the work of many.

Carr et al. (2002) ran almost the same steps and also saw shifting preference. Their data say you should repeat the choice test if attention and tangibles both feel strong.

Livingston et al. (2023) go one step further. They show you can skip separate reinforcers and treat multiply maintained behavior with one chained FCT package. The 1998 paper gives the preference logic; the 2023 paper gives the streamlined treatment.

Wanchisen et al. (1989) did early reinforcer assessment before sessions. S et al. move that idea to after the FA, right when you need to pick the strongest reward.

When your FA shows two or three functions, do not guess which reinforcer to use. Spend five minutes on a concurrent-schedule preference test. Let the client show you the winner. Build your treatment around that single, strongest reward. You save time and get faster behavior change.