What is the term for what occurs after a behavior takes place?

The term that refers to what occurs after a behavior takes place is "consequence." In behavioral analysis, particularly in the context of applied behavior analysis (ABA), a consequence is any event that follows a behavior and can influence the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. Consequences can either reinforce a behavior, making it more likely to be repeated, or punish a behavior, making it less likely to occur. Understanding consequences is critical for practitioners who aim to modify behaviors effectively.

The concept of consequences is contrasted with other terms like behavior itself, which refers to the action or response that is being observed. Intervention refers to strategies or techniques designed to change or improve behavior, while function pertains to the underlying reasons or motivations for a behavior, such as obtaining a desired outcome or avoiding an undesirable situation. Thus, recognizing the role of consequences in the behavior chain is fundamental for practitioners seeking to implement effective behavior modification strategies.