In behavior management, which technique is described as a prompt using a visual or verbal cue?

• A. Token economy
• B. Prompt
• C. Modeling
• D. Contingency contracting

Answer: (B)

A prompt is a cue that helps a student initiate the desired behavior. Using a visual cue (like a picture schedule or a posted reminder) or a verbal cue (such as a brief reminder phrase) gives the student enough information at the moment to perform the correct action. Prompts are especially useful because they support the student in starting the behavior, and they are typically faded over time as the student becomes more independent. This approach differs from other strategies: a token economy reinforces behavior after it occurs using tokens; modeling shows the student how to do the behavior by demonstrating it; and contingency contracting lays out a written agreement about expected behaviors and rewards. For example, a teacher might say, “Raise your hand before speaking” and point to the hand-raising reminder, then gradually rely less on the cue as the student begins to respond on their own.