Final answer:
To make a hypothesis about the function(s) of a target behavior, you must observe the behavior, collect data on the behavior, and analyze the data to identify patterns. The step that is not required before formulating a hypothesis is actually formulating the hypothesis itself. The correct answer is 4) Formulate a hypothesis based on the data.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before you can make a hypothesis about the function(s) of the target behavior, you must do all of the following EXCEPT:
- Observe the behavior in different contexts
- Collect data on the behavior
- Analyze the data to identify patterns
- Formulate a hypothesis based on the data
The correct answer is 4) Formulate a hypothesis based on the data. After observing the behavior, collecting data, and analyzing the data to identify patterns, you are ready to formulate a hypothesis based on the information you have gathered. The hypothesis is an educated guess or prediction about the function(s) of the target behavior. It is important to collect enough data and analyze it before formulating a hypothesis to ensure that it is based on evidence.