Describe how to apply operant conditioning when working with a child on the autism spectrum to make eye contact with an adult.

Be sure to do the following:

• Briefly recap and describe the target behavior that needs to be shaped.
• Break the behavior down into the manageable parts that will help to shape (list each part).
• Evaluate a minimum of four specific reinforcers that could be used to shape behaviors; select the most appropriate one.
• Describe at least two factors that should be considered when selecting a reinforcer and explain the reasoning for choosing that reinforcer.
• Using the behavioral parts and the selected reinforcer, describe the process that will be used to shape the target behavior.
• Discuss how to balance eventually removing tangible reinforcement while preventing extinction during shaping.