Free Operant Preference Assessments

Understanding Free Operant Preference Assessments

In behavior analysis, a preference assessment identifies stimuli a person selects or engages with, using measures such as choice frequency or time spent engaging. During your daily sessions as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), you will often help identify items, activities, or materials that a learner enjoys. It is critical to recognize that a preferred item is a potential reinforcer. A preferred item functions as a reinforcer only if its contingent delivery increases future behavior. While a formal reinforcer assessment is not always required, data must show that contingent delivery of a stimulus increases behavior before it can be called a reinforcer.

One valuable way to identify preferred items is through a free operant preference assessment. In a free operant preference assessment, the learner can freely approach and engage with the available assessment stimuli, subject to safety and the written protocol. Unlike procedures where materials are taken away after each choice, in a free operant assessment, items generally remain available after selection rather than being removed for the next choice.

Leaving items available serves an essential clinical function. Free operant preference assessments reduce the risk of problem behavior associated with taking preferred items away. Consequently, free operant assessments are well suited for clients who exhibit challenging behavior when items are removed. If a learner tends to engage in problem behavior whenever an adult takes away a preferred toy, this procedure allows the technician to observe natural interactions safely without creating unnecessary conflict.