What is Response Generalization?

Response Generalization happens when a learner emits a DIFFERENT behavior that works for the same function.

Simple Formula: Different Behavior, Same Function.

Examples

- You teach a child to say "Hello".
- The child then says "Hi", "Sup", "Greetings", "Hey there".
- These are all new responses that you didn't teach, but they work!

RBT Practice Exam Scenario

Question: "You taught the client to build a Lego tower. The client then built a Lego house. What is this?"
Answer: Response Generalization. The materials (Stimulus) are the same, but the creation (Response) is new.

Frequently Asked Questions About Response Generalization

Key difference from Stimulus Generalization?

Stimulus Generalization = Same Response (in new places). Response Generalization = New Response (for same outcome).

Is it desirable?

Yes! We want learners to have a flexible vocabulary and repertoire. We don't want them to only say "Hello" like a robot.

Can it be bad?

Sometimes. If a child learns to open a door with a key, and then genericizes to kicking the door down (Response Gen), that is maladaptive.