In a study, the term for the relationship where manipulating the independent variable reliably changes the dependent variable is

• A. DRA
• B. Stimulus Generalization
• C. Functional Relation
• D. Valence of Behavior

Answer: (C)

A functional relation is established when systematically changing the independent variable produces a reliable, replicable change in the dependent variable, demonstrating experimental control over the behavior. This means the observed effect on the behavior can be attributed to the manipulation itself, not to random variation or confounding factors. The other terms refer to specific procedures or phenomena: differential reinforcement of alternative behavior is a particular reinforcement method to increase an alternative response; stimulus generalization involves a response extending to similar stimuli; valence of behavior describes whether a consequence increases or decreases behavior but doesn’t define the relation between deliberate manipulation and behavior change.