Which term describes behavior that is stable and does not change over time?

Which term describes behavior that is stable and does not change over time?

• A. Steady-State Performance
• B. Stimulus Class
• C. Topography
• D. Ontogenetic

Answer: (A)

Stability of behavior over time is captured by steady-state performance. When a behavior reaches steady state, the level or rate of responding remains essentially the same across successive sessions under the same conditions, showing a plateau rather than a trend up or down. This is the idea of stability across time. Stimulus class describes a group of stimuli that share a common property, not how behavior changes over time. Topography refers to the form or shape of the behavior itself, not its consistency. Ontogenetic is about development and changes in behavior across the lifespan. So steady-state performance is the term that best describes behavior that is stable and does not change over time.

Stability of behavior over time is captured by steady-state performance. When a behavior reaches steady state, the level or rate of responding remains essentially the same across successive sessions under the same conditions, showing a plateau rather than a trend up or down. This is the idea of stability across time.

Stimulus class describes a group of stimuli that share a common property, not how behavior changes over time. Topography refers to the form or shape of the behavior itself, not its consistency. Ontogenetic is about development and changes in behavior across the lifespan. So steady-state performance is the term that best describes behavior that is stable and does not change over time.