Which term describes a fictitious variable that implies an inner cause for observable behavior?

The term "Explanatory Fiction" refers to a concept in behavior analysis that describes a fictitious variable explaining behavior by attributing it to an internal cause or state. This term is used to highlight that certain psychological constructs—such as beliefs, desires, or motivations—are often posited to explain why a person behaves in a certain way, but do not have an empirical basis in observable events. Instead, they serve as explanatory labels that simplify complex behavior patterns without offering predictive or actionable insights.

Understanding the implications of Explanatory Fiction is crucial in applied behavior analysis, as it emphasizes the importance of focusing on observable behaviors and the environmental contexts that can be manipulated to achieve behavior change, rather than relying on speculative inner states that may not be measurable or actionable. This approach advocates for a clear connection between observable behaviors, environmental events, and interventions, which is central to effective practices in educational settings.