Functional Behavior Assessment
Systematic way for looking at problem behavior in the context in which it happens.
A functional behavior assessment includes looking at:
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setting events,
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antecedents,
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problem behaviors, and
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maintaining consequences.
Setting Events
Setting Events are things that when a trigger is present increases the chances that the problem behavior will occur.
Examples:
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Settings
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Lack of sleep
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Medications
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Illness
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Change in routines/people
Antecedents
The antecedent is what happens right before the problem behavior; it is what "triggers" the behavior.
Challenging Behaviors
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Measurable
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Observable
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Work on one challenging behavior at a time
Maintaining Consequences
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Maintaining consequences are what occur directly AFTER the problem behavior that increase or maintain that behavior.
Record the Process
| Setting Events | Antecedent | Behavior | Consequence | Function of the Behavior |
| Dad gets home from work, mom is tired, she's been home with child all day--no adult interaction | Dad greets Mom and talks with her | Child interrupts parents and tantrums | Mom and Dad both yell at him | Acknowledge/Attention |