Reinforcement Preference Assessment
Record reported preferences across 8 categories and print a list to discuss with the person and their support team. Ratings do not establish that an item will reinforce a behavior. Free to use; ratings stay in this browser page.
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How It Works
Rate items from 1 to 5 using the person's current choices or your observations. Skip unknown or unsuitable items. Rate at least 3 items, then choose Generate Preference Inventory. This list records your ratings; it does not observe behavior or test treatment effects.
This informal checklist does not replace an individualized assessment. Ask the person what they want and respect refusal. Food, touch and physical or sensory activities must suit the person's health, safety and consent. Do not restrict basic needs to obtain participation. Ratings clear when this page reloads; print a copy if you need to keep them.
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Sources
Checked October 21, 2026: EBIP: preference assessments and their limits; Vanderbilt IRIS: consequences and reinforcement. General education, not an individualized treatment plan.
Understanding Reinforcement in ABA
What Is Reinforcement?
Reinforcement means a consequence increases a behavior over time. Liking an item does not by itself demonstrate that effect. This checklist records reported preferences only.
Why Preference Assessments Matter
Preferences differ between people and can change. A preference assessment identifies relative choices in its setting; selected items are not guaranteed to function as reinforcers.
Using This Checklist
- Ask about current choices and respect refusal.
- Skip items you cannot rate or that are unsuitable.
- Update ratings when preferences change.
- Discuss individualized teaching decisions with a qualified practitioner.
Formal vs. Informal Preference Assessments
This tool is a rating checklist, not a paired-stimulus, multiple-stimulus or free-operant assessment. Ask a qualified practitioner which assessment fits the person and question.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This tool is an informal rating checklist. It sorts reported preferences; it does not establish a reinforcing effect.
Check current choices and update ratings when preferences change. This tool does not prescribe a fixed reassessment schedule.
A reinforcing consequence increases a behavior over time. Timing alone does not distinguish reinforcement from bribery; this checklist does not assess either effect.
Parents and caregivers can record observations and discuss the list with the person and support team. It does not replace an individualized assessment.