BCBA Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam Study Guide

BCBA Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam Study Guide

144 Questions & Answers

73 Page PDF

The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam is a rigorous assessment administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). It evaluates an individual's knowledge and skills in applied behavior analysis (ABA) at the graduate level, signifying they are qualified to independently provide behavior-analytic services.

Here's a breakdown of the BCBA exam:

Exam Format:

• Format: Multiple-choice questions.
• Delivery: Computer-based testing (CBT) at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.
• Duration: 4 hours.
• Number of Questions: 185 questions, of which 170 are scored and 15 are unscored pilot questions.
• Language: English, with some translations available (e.g., Spanish).
• Passing Score: A scaled score is used. Candidates need to achieve a minimum passing score set by the BACB.

Exam Content (Based on the 6th Edition Test Content Outline): The exam content is based on the BACB's BCBA Test Content Outline (TCO), which outlines the comprehensive knowledge and skills expected of independent BCBA practitioners. The 6th edition TCO includes nine domains with a different distribution of questions compared to previous versions:

• A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations (7%): In-depth understanding of the principles and philosophical underpinnings of behavior analysis.
• B. Concepts and Principles (12%): Thorough understanding and application of fundamental behavioral principles and concepts.
• C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation (13%): Advanced skills in data collection methodologies, graphing techniques, and interpreting complex behavioral data.
• D. Experimental Design (7%): Comprehensive knowledge of single-case research designs, including their strengths, limitations, and interpretation.
• E. Ethical and Professional Issues (12%): Extensive knowledge of ethical codes, professional conduct, and legal/regulatory requirements, with an increased emphasis on cultural humility and interpersonal skills.
• F. Behavior Assessment (11%): Mastery of various assessment methods, including conducting comprehensive functional behavior assessments (FBAs) and interpreting assessment data within a cultural context.
• G. Behavior-Change Procedures (15%): Advanced knowledge in designing, implementing, and evaluating a wide range of behavior-change interventions, including time-based schedules and procedures promoting generative performance.
• H. Intervention Development and Monitoring (13%): Skills in developing comprehensive intervention plans, monitoring their effectiveness, making data-based decisions, and considering relapse prevention and resource allocation, while prioritizing client preferences and cultural considerations.
• I. Supervisory Relationships (10%): In-depth understanding of effective and ethical supervision practices, performance evaluations, and fostering equitable professional growth.

Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible to sit for the BCBA exam, candidates must meet stringent requirements set by the BACB, which generally include:

• A graduate degree (Master's or higher) from an accredited institution in behavior analysis or a related field (e.g., psychology, education) with specific coursework in behavior analysis that meets BACB standards (currently 315 hours based on the 4th Edition Task List; requirements may evolve with the 6th Edition TCO). This coursework must cover specific content areas outlined by the BACB, often through ABAI-accredited programs or Verified Course Sequences (VCS, which the ABAI will discontinue in 2025, with the BACB taking over coursework verification).
• Accumulation of supervised fieldwork hours: Candidates need to complete a significant number of supervised experience hours under a qualified supervisor (BCBA). As of the 2022 update, there are two fieldwork options:
  • Supervised Fieldwork: 2000 total experience hours with supervision for a minimum of 5% of experience hours per month.
  • Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork: 1500 total experience hours with supervision for a minimum of 10% of experience hours per month.

Benefits of BCBA Certification:

• Independent Practice: Allows professionals to independently provide behavior-analytic services.
• Professional Authority and Leadership: Positions individuals as leaders and experts in the field of ABA.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Opens doors to a wider range of advanced roles in research, clinical practice, consultation, and academia.
• Increased Earning Potential: BCBAs typically command higher salaries due to their advanced qualifications.
• Global Recognition: The BCBA certification is recognized internationally as a standard of excellence in behavior analysis.
• Contribution to the Field: Empowers individuals to make significant contributions to the lives of individuals with behavioral needs and the advancement of the science of ABA.

To prepare for the BCBA exam, candidates should:

• Thoroughly review the BCBA Test Content Outline (6th ed.).
• Study extensively from their graduate-level behavior analysis coursework and other relevant materials.
• Master the BACB Ethics Code.
• Utilize study guides, practice exams, and other preparation resources offered by various organizations.
• Consider mentorship and study groups.

It is paramount to consult the official Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) website (www.bacb.com) for the most current and accurate information regarding exam requirements, eligibility criteria, and content, as these details are subject to change. The BACB provides essential handbooks and resources for prospective candidates.