add a bit more to this:

Sensory Stimulation

Behavior Analytic Terms: When behavior is maintained by the sensory input or stimulation it provides, it serves a sensory or automatic reinforcement function. This means the behavior itself is inherently rewarding.

Colloquial Terms: The behavior is done because it feels good or is stimulating internally, not because of external rewards.

Example Scenario: A child frequently spins in circles and smiles while doing so, even when alone. This spinning provides internal sensory feedback that the child appears to enjoy.

Functional Analysis Conditions:

• Control Condition: Environmental conditions are enriched with sensory alternatives that provide similar stimulation.
• Test Condition: No supplementary sensory input is provided, except that available from the spinning behavior itself, measuring if the behavior persists or increases without external reinforcement.

Conducting a functional analysis using these conditions helps identify the underlying reinforces of the behavior, which is critical for developing effective intervention strategies.