High-Probability Request Sequence
Also called: high-p sequence, behavioral momentum procedure, high-p request sequence
Definition
An antecedent procedure in which several requests the learner is very likely to follow are delivered in quick succession, each reinforced, immediately before a request the learner is unlikely to follow. The run of reinforced compliance carries over into the low-probability request. It is an application of behavioral momentum.
In plain language
Ask for a few easy things the learner will do, praise each one, then ask for the hard thing right away. The easy wins carry over.
Example
"High five! Touch your nose! Clap!" — praise each — then "Time to put the toys away."
Not high-probability request sequence
Letting the learner play after they clean up. Using a preferred activity as a reward afterward is the Premack principle.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- mace-1988
Written from Mace et al. (1988). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.