Behavioral Cusp
Definition
A behavior change that opens the person's world to new contingencies, reinforcers, environments and further learning that were previously out of reach — learning to read, to walk, to ask questions. Cusps are prioritized as goals because their effects go far beyond the behavior itself.
In plain language
A skill that unlocks many other skills and experiences. Learning to read is one: after it, the person can learn from every sign and book.
Example
A learner who begins to imitate can now be taught almost anything by demonstration.
Not behavioral cusp
Learning to name one more color. Useful, but it does not by itself open up new environments.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- rosales-ruiz-baer-1997
Written from Rosales-Ruiz and Baer (1997). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.