H5 Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible relapse of the target behavior

H.5 Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible relapse of the target behavior

Planning for and attempting to mitigate possible relapse of the target behavior involves creating strategies to prevent the reoccurrence of previously reduced or eliminated behaviors after the intervention has ended. This includes identifying potential triggers, preparing for setbacks, and implementing long-term strategies to maintain the desired behavior over time.

Example: A BCBA has successfully reduced a child’s tantrum behavior using a behavior intervention plan that includes reinforcement for appropriate communication. To prevent relapse after the intervention ends, the BCBA:

Creates a maintenance plan, which includes gradually reducing the frequency of reinforcement while still providing enough to maintain the behavior
Teaches caregivers how to recognize and manage situations that might trigger tantrums (e.g., transitions) and encourages them to consistently reinforce the child for using appropriate communication.
Schedule follow-up sessions to check on the child’s progress and adjust if the behavior begins to resurface.

H. Selecting and Implementing Interventions

H.1. Develop intervention goals in observable and measurable terms.

H.2. Identify and recommend interventions based on assessment results, scientific evidence, client preferences, and contextual fit (e.g., expertise required for implementation, cultural variables, environmental resources).

H.3. Select socially valid alternative behavior to be established or increased when a target behavior is to be decreased.

H.4. Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible unwanted effects when using reinforcement, extinction, and punishment procedures.

H.5. Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible relapse of the target behavior.

H.6. Make data-based decisions about procedural integrity.

H.7. Make data-based decisions about the effectiveness of the intervention and the need for modification.

H.8. Collaborate with others to support and enhance client services.