ABSTRACT
Behavior analysis is defined by a focus on behavior change that is measurable and socially significant, and this is necessarily true when ACT is implemented by behavior analysts. Committed actions describe those behaviors that allow for greater contact with valued-reinforcement and operate as the primary outcome measure within behavioral interventions. Most critically, committed actions should be broad and defined functionally when possible. In this chapter, we review the basic science behind inducing operant variability and behavior change, as well as maintaining behavior change while combatting resurgence, renewal, and reinstatement. Whereas prior processes seek to weaken the stimulus control of unworkable rules, committed action as a process seeks to build momentum through behavior change toward valued living. We also review the science behind SMART goal setting and strategies to measure committed action as a dependent variable. Behavior analysts are already well accustomed to arranging the environment in ways that support behavior change efforts, and we conclude by linking committed action with the behavioral processes discussed in prior chapters.
