Historical, theoretical and methodological aspects of Behavioral Momentum Theory

Abstract

Behavioral Momentum Theory (BMT) was proposed to systematize research data on behavioral resistance to change, defining it as the tendency of a behavior to continue occurring when the environment in which it is being maintained is altered. This article discusses the historical, theoretical and methodological aspects of behavioral resistance to change according to the conceptual framework of BMT and presents some of the implications of this area for Applied Behavior Analysis. It is noted that behavioral resistance is a complex phenomenon that can be affected by several variables, such as the rate or magnitude of reinforcement, different response-rate requirements and reinforcement delay. Such results promoted the development and refinement of intervention protocols, mainly in the work with individuals with atypical development. The continuity of research in this area will provide greater and better knowledge about the behavior of organisms, bases for theoretical reviews on the determinants of behavioral resistance to change, as well as promote the development of more effective behavioral interventions.