By Matt Harrington, BCBA · Behaviorist Book Club · Clinical decision guide
One of the most consequential decisions a behavior analyst makes is not just what intervention to use, but how to approach the clinical question in the first place. For chaining, the difference between an evidence-based, individualized approach and a traditional, protocol-driven one can significantly impact outcomes.
This guide lays out the key factors side by side to support your clinical decision-making.
| Factor | Evidence-Based Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence of instruction | Forward chaining: teaches steps in natural order, first to last | Backward chaining: teaches steps in reverse order, last to first |
| Terminal reinforcement contact | Forward chaining: reinforcement occurs after last mastered step, which may be early in the chain | Backward chaining: learner always completes the chain and accesses terminal reinforcement on every trial |
| Best clinical fit | Forward chaining: tasks where initial steps are simplest or where natural order is important for comprehension | Backward chaining: tasks where terminal reinforcement is powerful and final steps are easiest to master |
| Staff training demands | Forward chaining: staff must identify the mastery criterion step and prompt remaining steps accurately | Backward chaining: staff must implement the entire preceding chain and then focus instruction on the target step |
| Data collection complexity | Forward chaining: step-level data focused on the current instructional step; prior steps tracked for maintenance | Backward chaining: step-level data focused on the current target step; completed steps performed independently |
| Generalization considerations | Forward chaining: early mastery of initial steps may support partial-chain generalization in natural settings | Backward chaining: full-chain exposure on every trial may support generalization of the complete chain from the start |
The ABA Clubhouse has 60+ on-demand CEUs including ethics, supervision, and clinical topics like this one. Plus a new live CEU every Wednesday.
Use this framework when approaching chaining in your practice:
Does the data support a need for intervention? Is there a meaningful impact on the individual's quality of life, safety, or access to reinforcement?
YES → Proceed to assessment NO → Document reasoning, monitor
A functional assessment should guide intervention selection. Avoid defaulting to standard protocols without individual analysis. Consider environmental variables, setting events, and private events.
YES → Select evidence-based approach matched to function NO → Complete assessment first
Goals should be co-developed. Assent and informed consent are ethical requirements. The individual's preferences and values matter in selecting both goals and methods.
YES → Proceed with collaborative plan NO → Engage in shared decision-making
This course covers the clinical and ethical dimensions in detail with structured learning objectives and CEU credit.
Chaining — ABA Courses · 1 BACB General CEUs · $0
Take This Course →1 BACB General CEUs · $0 · ABA Courses
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
All behavior-analytic intervention is individualized. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice. Treatment decisions should be informed by the best available published research, individualized assessment, and obtained with the informed consent of the client or their legal guardian. Behavior analysts are responsible for practicing within the boundaries of their competence and adhering to the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.