Contingent observation involves the individual remaining in the setting but not participating for a short period.

• A. The individual is removed from the setting entirely.
• B. The individual remains in the setting but does not participate for a short period.
• C. The individual receives reinforcement during the observation.
• D. The individual is administered punishment.

Answer: (B)

Contingent observation is a non-exclusionary timeout: the learner stays in the same setting but is not allowed to participate in the ongoing activity for a brief period after a targeted behavior. This keeps the person in view and in the room while temporarily blocking active participation, which interrupts the reinforcement of the undesired behavior without removing the learner from the environment. The description—remains in the setting but does not participate for a short period—captures this exact setup. It differs from removing the person from the setting, or from receiving reinforcement during the observation, or from punishment, which are not characteristics of contingent observation.