What is Chaining?
Chaining is the process of breaking a complex skill into smaller, teachable units, creating a Task Analysis (TA). You then teach these links of the chain one by one.
Think of a literal metal chain. Each step (link) connects to the next. The completion of step 1 is the SD for step 2, and so on.
Creating a Task Analysis
Before you can chain, you must make the TA. You can do this by:
1. Watching a competent person do it.
2. Doing it yourself.
3. Consulting an expert.
RBT Practice Exam Scenario
Question: "The RBT watches a peer wash their hands and writes down every step. What is she creating?"
Answer: A Task Analysis.
Types of Chaining
There are three main ways to teach the chain:
1. Forward Chaining
2. Backward Chaining
3. Total Task Chaining
Frequently Asked Questions About Chaining
What is the "dual function" of links in a chain?
Each step (except the first and last) serves two purposes: It is the Conditioned Reinforcer for the previous step AND the SD for the next step.
Why break skills down?
Complex skills like "Taking a Shower" are too big to teach all at once. Breaking them down makes them manageable.
Does every client have the same TA?
No. Some clients need 5 steps for hand washing; others need 20 steps (very detailed). It depends on their skill level.