Which term describes when a learner only performs a behavior after being prompted?

The term that describes when a learner only performs a behavior after being prompted is prompt dependency. This concept refers to a situation where an individual relies on prompts or cues to elicit a specific behavior, rather than performing the behavior independently. It indicates a reliance on external assistance, illustrating that the learner may not have fully internalized the behavior or skill in question.

Prompt dependency is important to recognize in educational and therapeutic settings because it can influence how interventions are designed. The goal is often to gradually fade prompts to encourage independence in the learner. By understanding prompt dependency, professionals can implement strategies to promote skill acquisition without over-reliance on prompts, ultimately leading to greater independence in the learner's abilities.