Behavior must be defined as:

Behavior must be defined as observable by another person to ensure that it can be measured and analyzed in a consistent and objective manner. In the context of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and working with individuals with autism, it is crucial to document behaviors that can be seen and recorded, allowing practitioners to track progress and implement effective interventions based on tangible data. This observable aspect is what facilitates communication among team members and helps ensure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the behaviors being addressed.

Defining behavior in terms of its observability aligns with the principles of ABA, which prioritize measurable outcomes and empirical evidence to guide interventions. This approach enables technicians and therapists to focus on specific actions that can be influenced or modified, contributing to the individual's development and well-being. The emphasis on observability excludes subjective interpretations of behavior as simply being "good" or "bad," which can vary widely between cultures and personal beliefs, and instead focuses on consistent, observable actions that can be universally understood and agreed upon by professionals.