Functional Behavior Analysis
Steps to Completing the FBA:
1. Define the problem behavior.The problem behavior should have a very concrete definition that is observable, measurable, and has a clear beginning and end. For example, "Mike will not participate in class" is too vague. "During independent work time, Mike throws small pieces of paper or other small objects at his classmates," is a more concrete definition of the problem behavior.
2. Create a plan to collect data. There are several very useful tools for collecting data. Many different tools should be used in order for the team to gain the greatest understanding of the student's problem behavior. Tools include reviewing the students records, interviewing the student and/or people close to them (family members, teachers), Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence charts (ABC Chart), and observation checklists are all very useful (see examples of these methods at the bottom of this page.)
3. Analyze the data. Using an FBA Summary chart, summarize your data and create a "bigger picture."
4. Create a hypothesis. Based on all of the data, what function does the behavior serve? To get something (peer attention, adult attention, etc)? To avoid something (completing an assignment, reading in front of the class, etc)?
5. Create a Behavior Intervention Plan. Click here to learn about the Behavior Intervention Plan.
Examples:
Observation Check List Example:
Steps to Completing the FBA:
1. Define the problem behavior.The problem behavior should have a very concrete definition that is observable, measurable, and has a clear beginning and end. For example, "Mike will not participate in class" is too vague. "During independent work time, Mike throws small pieces of paper or other small objects at his classmates," is a more concrete definition of the problem behavior.
2. Create a plan to collect data. There are several very useful tools for collecting data. Many different tools should be used in order for the team to gain the greatest understanding of the student's problem behavior. Tools include reviewing the students records, interviewing the student and/or people close to them (family members, teachers), Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence charts (ABC Chart), and observation checklists are all very useful (see examples of these methods at the bottom of this page.)
3. Analyze the data. Using an FBA Summary chart, summarize your data and create a "bigger picture."
4. Create a hypothesis. Based on all of the data, what function does the behavior serve? To get something (peer attention, adult attention, etc)? To avoid something (completing an assignment, reading in front of the class, etc)?
5. Create a Behavior Intervention Plan. Click here to learn about the Behavior Intervention Plan.
Examples:
Observation Check List Example:
ABC Chart Example:
Simple FBA Example:
Now that the FBA is complete, the team may begin creating the Behavior Intervention Plan.