In the context of operational definitions, which of the following is NOT a criterion?

In the realm of operational definitions, accuracy and clarity are paramount, as they ensure that behaviors can be consistently measured and understood. An operational definition must be clear, allowing anyone who reads it to understand exactly what behavior is being referred to. Additionally, it should be precise and complete, detailing the specifics of the behavior so that it can be reliably identified and recorded. Objectivity is also a critical aspect because it helps to eliminate subjective interpretations, ensuring that the definition is based on observable behavior rather than personal viewpoints.

The criterion of flexibility, however, is not aligned with the purpose of operational definitions. A flexible definition might lead to variability in interpretation and measurement, which defeats the purpose of having a standard that can be universally applied. Operational definitions are meant to provide a stable and consistent framework for identifying and measuring behavior, which is essential for the reliability and validity of data within applied behavior analysis.