A Progressive Approach to Applied Behavior Analysis - Chapter 10: Shaping

Shaping is a powerful behavior analytic approach to developing and changing behavior. It involves expanding and refining response classes through the systematic use of reinforcement and in-the-moment assessment of a learner's behavior. In this chapter, we provide a brief history of the development and understanding of shaping as a means to change behavior through descriptions of some important research related to shaping. We also provide several clinical recommendations related to the use of shaping and taking a nonlinear approach to shaping.