Which term is defined as a stimulus change that follows a behavior of interest?

The term that best describes a stimulus change that follows a behavior of interest is "consequence." In behavioral analysis, a consequence refers to the outcome or result that occurs after a behavior, which can influence the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future.

Consequences can be positive, where they reinforce the behavior, or negative, where they might lead to the behavior being decreased or extinguished. Understanding this concept is crucial for designing effective intervention strategies in behavior modification, especially in working with individuals on the autism spectrum. This knowledge can help practitioners implement strategies that either reinforce desired behaviors or reduce undesired ones, thereby enhancing learning and social interactions.

Other terms mentioned, like antecedent, refer to stimuli that occur before a behavior, while reward is a type of consequence specifically signaling a positive outcome. Motivation refers to the internal or external factors that drive an individual's behavior but does not directly denote the stimulus change that occurs after the behavior.