Latency RecordingComplete Guide
Learn to measure response time between instruction and behavior. Perfect for tracking compliance, task initiation, and transitions.
What is Latency Recording?
Latency recording measures the elapsed time between a discriminative stimulus (such as an instruction, cue, or signal) and the beginning of a target behavior. Unlike duration recording which measures how long a behavior lasts, latency measures how long it takes for a behavior to start.
The Latency Formula
Latency = Time of Behavior Onset − Time of StimulusExample: Teacher says "Get started" at 9:00:00. Student begins writing at 9:00:12.
Latency = 12 seconds
Key Characteristics of Latency Recording
- ✓Requires a clear stimulus: There must be an identifiable cue that marks the start of timing
- ✓Measures response initiation: Captures how quickly behavior begins, not how long it continues
- ✓Expressed in time units: Typically seconds or minutes
- ✓Best for compliance behaviors: Following directions, starting tasks, responding to cues
When to Use Latency Recording
✓ Use Latency Recording When...
- • Response time is the primary concern
- • Tracking compliance to directions
- • Measuring task initiation speed
- • Assessing transition efficiency
- • Monitoring response to social cues
- • There is a clear, consistent stimulus
- • The behavior has a defined onset
✗ Consider Other Methods When...
- • Behavior occurs without a clear trigger
- • You need to know how long behavior lasts (use duration)
- • You need to count occurrences (use frequency)
- • Behavior is continuous (use interval)
- • You want to understand behavior function (use ABC)
- • Response onset is hard to identify
Latency Recording Examples
| Behavior | Stimulus (Start Timing) | Response (Stop Timing) | Sample Data | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Following directions | Teacher gives verbal instruction | Student begins following the direction | 8 sec, 12 sec, 5 sec, 15 sec, 7 sec | 9.4 seconds |
| Task initiation | Bell rings signaling work time | Student opens materials and begins work | 45 sec, 30 sec, 25 sec, 20 sec, 15 sec | 27 seconds (improving) |
| Responding to name | Adult says student name | Student makes eye contact or verbal response | 2 sec, 3 sec, 5 sec, 2 sec, 2 sec | 2.8 seconds |
| Transition to activity | Visual timer reaches zero | Student begins moving to next activity | 60 sec, 45 sec, 30 sec, 25 sec, 20 sec | 36 seconds (improving) |
Sample Latency Data Sheet
Student: Example Student
Target Behavior: Task initiation (beginning independent work within X seconds of direction)
Discriminative Stimulus: Teacher says "Please begin your work"
| Date | Trial 1 | Trial 2 | Trial 3 | Trial 4 | Trial 5 | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon 12/11 | 45s | 38s | 52s | NR | 40s | 43.8s |
| Tue 12/12 | 32s | 28s | 35s | 25s | 30s | 30.0s |
| Wed 12/13 | 22s | 18s | 25s | 20s | 15s | 20.0s |
| Thu 12/14 | 15s | 12s | 18s | 10s | 14s | 13.8s |
| Fri 12/15 | 10s | 8s | 12s | 9s | 11s | 10.0s |
📈 Trend: Average latency decreased from 43.8s to 10.0s over 5 days (77% improvement)
How to Collect Latency Data
Define the Target Behavior
Write an operational definition that specifies exactly what response you are measuring.
Identify the Discriminative Stimulus
Clearly define the cue that triggers timing. Be specific about what constitutes the stimulus.
Establish Maximum Wait Time
Set a ceiling for how long you will wait. If behavior does not occur, record as "NR" or the max time.
Prepare Your Tools
Have timing devices ready and accessible. Digital tools can automate this process.
Collect and Record Data
Start timer on stimulus delivery, stop on behavior onset. Record immediately.
Calculate and Graph
Calculate average latency per session. Graph daily averages to visualize trends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is latency recording in behavior analysis?
Latency recording measures the time elapsed between a stimulus (cue, instruction, or event) and the onset of a target behavior. It is used to track how quickly someone responds to directions or initiates tasks. Latency is measured in seconds or minutes.
When should I use latency recording?
Use latency recording when response time is the primary concern. Common applications include: compliance to directions (time from instruction to starting), task initiation (time from bell to beginning work), social responses (time from greeting to responding), and transition behaviors (time from cue to moving).
What is the difference between latency and duration?
Latency measures time BEFORE the behavior starts (from cue to behavior onset). Duration measures time DURING the behavior (from start to end). For example, latency measures how long it takes a student to start working after being told; duration measures how long they work.
How do I calculate average latency?
Add all latency measurements together and divide by the number of observations. Example: If latencies were 5, 8, 12, 6, and 9 seconds across 5 trials, average latency = (5+8+12+6+9)/5 = 8 seconds.
What is a good target latency for compliance?
A typical target for compliance latency is 5-10 seconds from instruction to beginning the response. However, targets should be individualized based on the student baseline, age, developmental level, and the specific behavior.
How do I handle non-responses in latency recording?
Establish a maximum wait time (e.g., 30 seconds). If no response occurs within this window, record either the maximum time or code it as "no response/NR." Document your protocol in your operational definition.
Can latency data be used in FBAs?
Yes. Latency data can reveal function. For example, consistently long latencies to specific demands may indicate escape-motivated behavior. Combining latency data with ABC recording provides a more complete functional picture.
How do I ensure accurate latency measurement?
Use consistent start and stop criteria, practice with a partner to establish interobserver agreement (aim for 80%+ IOA), use reliable timing devices, and consider using digital tools like Classroom Pulse that automate timing and recording.
Automate Latency Recording
Classroom Pulse includes built-in latency timers with voice activation. Start timing with a tap, stop automatically when behavior begins.