What behavior is likely to continue even if ignored by the staff?

Eating cookies is a behavior that may continue even if ignored by staff because it often involves a reinforcer that can maintain the behavior independently of external attention. In many therapeutic settings, staff may overlook certain benign behaviors, such as eating, especially if individuals are permitted to choose snacks or have access to food. The act of eating can be self-rewarding through the immediate pleasure of taste, which can prompt a person to continue the behavior without the need for encouragement or supervision.

In contrast, behaviors such as reading quietly, participating in group activities, and doing homework often rely on social reinforcement or the presence of structured guidance. If these activities are ignored, individuals might not find the same internal motivation to continue engaging in them, as they typically require an environment that encourages participation or focus. These behaviors benefit from social interaction or engagement with others, which may diminish if staff do not facilitate or encourage them.