When setting a behavioral criterion, what is an important consideration to keep in mind?

When establishing a behavioral criterion, it's vital to ensure that it results in a functional skill that can realistically be achieved by the individual. This approach emphasizes the importance of setting goals that are attainable and relevant to the person's everyday life. Functional skills are those that have practical applications, enabling individuals to engage more effectively in their environments.

Setting a criterion that is functional and achievable helps to foster motivation and confidence in the learner, as they can see tangible progress in areas that matter to them. Goals that are too ambitious or focused primarily on theoretical concepts may lead to frustration or disengagement, as the learner may struggle to see the relevance of what they are working on. By ensuring that the criterion reflects a functional skill, practitioners can create meaningful learning experiences that promote communication and enhance overall effectiveness in both educational and therapeutic contexts.