What is measured by duration in behavior analysis?

Duration in behavior analysis specifically refers to how long a particular behavior lasts from the beginning to the end of that behavior. This measurement captures the total time a behavior is occurring, allowing analysts to understand the persistence or intensity of that behavior over time.

For example, if a child is engaged in a tantrum, the duration would be the total time from when the tantrum starts until it subsides. This information can be crucial for developing effective interventions or strategies, as longer durations may indicate a more significant challenge that requires targeted support.

The other options, while related to behaviors, do not encapsulate the meaning of duration. Counting occurrences pertains to the frequency of behaviors, while timing until the next response or responsiveness to a stimulus involves different aspects of behavior assessment, focusing on intervals and reaction times rather than the length of a behavior itself.