Which of the following describes the three-term contingency in behavior analysis?

The three-term contingency in behavior analysis is fundamentally described by antecedent, behavior, and consequence. This framework outlines how behavior is shaped and influenced within a given context.

The antecedent refers to the conditions or stimuli that occur before a behavior, which can trigger or set the stage for that specific action. Following the behavior itself, the consequence is the outcome that results from the behavior, which can either reinforce it or deter it in the future. This model emphasizes the interconnectedness of these components and how they collectively determine behavioral patterns. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective behavior modification and analysis.

Other options, while related to concepts in behavior analysis, do not capture the essence of the three-term contingency as clearly or accurately. For instance, using terms like stimulus and response may relate to behavioral analysis but lacks the specificity of the antecedent component. Similarly, condition, action, and result do not directly correspond to the established terminology used in behavior analysis, making them less relevant in describing this fundamental concept.