Question
Difficulty: medium. Skill: apply. Type: data interpretation.
A BCBA reviews caregiver notes plus one direct observation for dropping to the floor when demands are presented. The next decision depends on measurement validity and reliability. What should the BCBA do? The case file includes 10 recent sessions, 2 implementers, and 4 settings.
ACheck measurement quality, observer agreement, and procedural integrity before making a major decision in relation to child's dropping to the floor when demands are presentedCorrect answer
BProceed informally because the team believes the action will help
CTell everyone to try harder and review the case next month
DTreat the most recent data point as proof of the final conclusion
Explanation
Answer AThe clue is the combination of caregiver notes plus one direct observation, dropping to the floor when demands are presented, and the required task: Measurement validity and reliability. The case file includes 10 recent sessions, 2 implementers, and 4 settings. Check measurement quality, observer agreement, and procedural integrity before making a major decision in relation to child's dropping to the floor when demands are presented is best because it answers that clue through measurement quality and procedural integrity instead of treating the scenario as a generic behavior problem. On exam items like this, name the decision point first, then eliminate options that rely on one report, a label, a familiar protocol, or an action that skips the relevant data check.
Why this question is hard
ClueKey scenario clueThe clue is the combination of caregiver notes plus one direct observation, dropping to the floor when demands are presented, and the required task: Measurement validity and reliability. The case file includes 10 recent sessions, 2 implementers, and 4 settings.
TrapCommon trapGood intent does not replace consent, documentation, competence, or other safeguards.
NextIf you missed it, review Internal validity and confoundsThen answer a few related scenarios before moving back to broad practice.
Why the other choices are weaker
BChoice BGood intent does not replace consent, documentation, competence, or other safeguards.
CChoice CVague delayed feedback does not create a measurable plan for improvement.
DChoice DA single point rarely supports a strong conclusion without considering trend, variability, and context.
Study tags
Measurement quality and procedural integrityMeasurement validity and reliabilityvalidityreliability
Related concept pages
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