"Washing hands" sounds like one simple behavior. But to a learner, it is actually 15 separate steps: Turn on water, wet hands, pump soap, rub hands, rinse soap, turn off water, dry hands...

This is a Behavior Chain. When a task is too big, we break it down into a list (Task Analysis) and teach it link-by-link (Chaining). This lesson explains the three ways to link those steps together.

Executive Summary

This video covers Task Analysis (breaking a complex skill into steps) and Chaining Procedures (teaching those steps). We explore Forward Chaining (start at the beginning), Backward Chaining (start at the end), and Total Task (teach it all at once). We also discuss "Chain Interruption," a strategy to teach flexibility when things go wrong.

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:00

What is a Chain?
A sequence of responses where each step acts as a cue (SD) for the next step.

03:19

Forward Chaining
Teaching Step 1 first. Then 1+2. The client learns the sequence in natural order. Good for logical tasks (e.g., memorizing a phone number).

05:24

Backward Chaining
Teaching the Last Step first. The RBT does steps 1-9, and the client does Step 10 to get the reward. Great for motivation!

07:33

Total Task Chaining
The client attempts every step every time. The RBT helps only when they get stuck. Best for fast learners.

🔑 Key Insights

Task Analysis: The list of steps. (e.g., Step 1: Turn on water. Step 2: Wet hands...).

Forward: Logic-based. Good for steps that must happen in order (like spelling).

Backward: Motivation-based. They contact the "natural reinforcer" immediately (e.g., eating the sandwich they just made).

Chain Interruption: Stopping the chain on purpose (e.g., hiding the towel) to teach them how to ask for help.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which method is best for a client who gets frustrated easily?

A: Backward Chaining. Because you do most of the work for them at first, and they get the reward quickly. It builds confidence.

Q: What is the "Terminal Outcome"?

A: The final goal. The completed behavior (e.g., Clean Hands).

1. The Chaining Methods (Visualized)

Imagine a task with 5 Steps. Here is how you teach it differently.

2. Task Analysis (The Recipe)

Definition: The process of breaking a complex skill into smaller, teachable units.

Example: Hand Washing

Turn on water.
Wet hands.
Get soap.
Rub hands (10s).
Rinse hands.
Turn off water.
Dry hands.

📝 Knowledge Check

Which method is which?

Q1: You are teaching a child to tie their shoes. You do everything for them, but you let them do the final "pull tight" action. Then you praise them. What is this?

Answer: Backward Chaining.
You started by teaching the last step first.

Q2: A client already knows 80% of the steps to making a sandwich. You want them to do the whole thing, but you will help if they get stuck. What is this?

Answer: Total Task Chaining.
Best for learners who know most of the steps but need practice on the sequence or speed.

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