Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
Before you can change a behavior, you have to understand why it is happening. A functional behavior assessment is how a BCBA finds that out, and it is the foundation of every good behavior plan.
What an FBA is
A functional behavior assessment (FBA) is a structured process for figuring out the purpose, or "function," of a challenging behavior: what triggers it, and what the child gets or avoids because of it. Most challenging behaviors serve one of a few functions:
- Attention: getting a reaction from an adult or peer
- Escape or avoidance: getting out of a task, demand or situation
- Access to things: getting a toy, food, a tablet or an activity
- Sensory/automatic: the behavior itself feels good or relieves discomfort
Two children can have the same behavior, like hitting, for completely different reasons. That is why the right strategy depends on the function, not on how the behavior looks.
How an FBA works
- Interviews and questionnaires with parents, teachers and caregivers about when and where the behavior happens.
- Direct observation at home, at school or in the community, recording what happens right before (antecedents) and right after (consequences) the behavior.
- Data analysis to find patterns and form a hypothesis about the function.
- When appropriate, a functional analysis: a carefully controlled test, run by a BCBA, that confirms the function by systematically changing conditions[1]. Not every FBA needs one.
From FBA to a behavior intervention plan (BIP)
The FBA leads to a behavior intervention plan that spells out:
- How to prevent the behavior (changing triggers, routines and expectations)
- Which replacement skill to teach (for example asking for a break instead of hitting)
- How adults should respond, consistently, every time
- How progress will be measured
FBAs at school
Federal special-education rules require schools to conduct an FBA and put a BIP in place in certain disciplinary situations involving students with disabilities[2], and many IEP teams request one whenever behavior gets in the way of learning. Thrive can support families through the school process and collaborate with school staff when appropriate. See school-based ABA.
Who does an FBA at Thrive
Our FBAs are conducted by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst[3] and are part of the assessment that begins every ABA program. If you are dealing with aggression, self-injury, running off, severe tantrums or school refusal, book a free 15-minute consultation.
References
- Iwata BA, Dorsey MF, Slifer KJ, Bauman KE, Richman GS. Toward a functional analysis of self-injury. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis 1994;27(2):197-209 (reprinted from 1982). https://doi.org/10.1901/jaba.1994.27-197
- 34 CFR 300.530, Authority of school personnel (IDEA regulations; functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plan). https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/34/300.530
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) requirements. https://www.bacb.com/bcba/
Frequently asked questions
Please reach us at info@thrivebehavioraltherapy.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
What is the difference between an FBA and a functional analysis?
An FBA is the overall assessment process. A functional analysis is one specific, experimental method that may be used within an FBA to confirm why a behavior happens.
How long does an FBA take?
Usually several sessions of interviews and observation spread over a few weeks, followed by a written report and plan. It depends on how often the behavior happens and in how many settings.
Is an FBA covered by insurance?
When it is part of an ABA assessment for a child with an autism diagnosis, it is commonly covered. Coverage varies by plan. See insurance.
Can I request an FBA from my child's school?
Yes. Parents can ask the school or IEP team for an FBA when behavior is affecting learning. An outside BCBA can also share information with the school team when appropriate.