A Functional Assessment (FA) is a process used in AppliedApplied means that the behaviors targeted for change in... BehaviorBehavior refers to any activity or action that living o... Analysis (ABA) to identify the underlying reasons or functions for a specific behavior. The assessment involves gathering information through observations, interviews, and data collection to determine the antecedents (what happens before the behavior) and consequences (what happens after the behavior). The goal is to understand why a behavior occurs, so that interventions can be designed to address the behavior more effectively.
Example
A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) was conducted for a 10-year-old student, Jake, who frequently yells out in class. The behavior analyst started by interviewing Jake’s teachers and parents to gather background information, then conducted direct observations during class time. Data revealed that Jake’s yelling typically occurred during independent work tasks, especially when the teacher was busy with other students. After Jake yelled, the teacher would often provide him with individual attention, either by redirecting him or asking what he needed. This pattern suggested that Jake’s behavior was likely attention-seeking. The FBA identified that Jake was using the disruptive behavior to gain the teacher’s attention, and this information was used to create a behavior intervention plan focused on teaching Jake more appropriate ways to request attention in class.
Skills AssessmentA Skills Assessment is a process used to evaluate an individ..., Functional Analysis (FA)A Functional Analysis (FA) Assessment is a systematic method..., Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a formal, individualiz...