What term refers to behavioral responses that become closer to a target behavior without reinforcing previous approximations?

The term that refers to behavioral responses that become closer to a target behavior without reinforcing previous approximations is known as successive approximation. This concept is fundamental in behavior modification and the training of new skills, especially in therapeutic settings.

Successive approximation involves breaking down a complex behavior into smaller, more manageable components or steps. These smaller steps represent closer approximations to the final desired behavior. By gradually reinforcing behaviors that are increasingly similar to the target behavior, one can facilitate the learning process and encourage the individual to reach that final goal.

By using successive approximation, therapists or trainers do not need to reinforce every step along the way; instead, they focus on the overall trend of improvement towards the target behavior. This approach allows for a more flexible and efficient training process, as it can account for varying levels of understanding or ability in the individuals being trained.

The other terminologies, while related to behavioral strategies, do not describe the same process. Task analysis refers to the breakdown of a task into its component parts for more effective instruction, topography relates to the physical form or structure of a behavior, and total task chaining involves teaching a behavior by linking each step of the task together in the context of the entire procedure. None of these capture the essence of achieving behavior