Behavior-altering effects refer solely to the change in frequency or rate of a behavior.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Never

Answer: (B)

Behavior-altering effects cover more than just how often a behavior occurs. A stimulus or consequence can change multiple dimensions of behavior, not only the frequency. It can affect when a response starts (latency), how long it lasts (duration), the form it takes (topography), or the intensity, and it can even influence other, non-targeted behaviors in the environment. For example, a cue might slow response initiation and also alter the vigor of other actions, not just the target behavior’s rate. Because these effects span several aspects of behavior and can generalize beyond the specific response, the statement is not true.