Definition
Backward chaining is a teaching technique used in behavioral interventions, particularly in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), where a complex behavior is broken down into smaller, more manageable steps, referred to as a task analysis. Unlike traditional methods where the behavior is taught from the beginning to the end, backward chaining involves teaching the steps of the task starting with the final step. Once the learner successfully masters the last step, the second-to-last step is taught, and the process continues until all steps in the sequence have been learned. By starting with the end, the learner immediately experiences success, which reinforces the behavior, making it more likely that they will be motivated to complete the task.
Example
Consider teaching a child how to wash their hands using backward chaining. The handwashing process can be broken down into steps such as: turning on the faucet, wetting hands, applying soap, scrubbing, rinsing, and drying hands with a towel. Using backward chaining, the instructor would complete all the steps except the final one (drying hands), allowing the child to perform only that last step. Once the child has mastered drying their hands, the instructor moves to the second-to-last step (rinsing hands), allowing the child to perform both the rinsing and drying steps. This pattern continues until the child is able to complete all steps in the correct sequence, from washing to drying their hands. Starting with the last step provides the learner with an immediate sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the behavior and encouraging mastery of the entire sequence.