Understanding behavior is at the heart of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a scientific approach that helps improve socially significant behaviors. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, recognizing the function behind a behavior is essential to addressing it effectively.
But what exactly are the functions of behavior in ABA, and why does it matter? Read on as we break down the functions of behavior and how understanding them can lead to more effective interventions.
What is a Function of Behavior?
In ABA therapy, the term “function” refers to the purpose a behavior serves for an individual. Simply put, it’s why a person engages in a certain behavior. The behavior itself may look similar to others, but the underlying function can be entirely different.
For example, a child who screams may be trying to get attention, avoid a task, or seek sensory input. Identifying the function of a behavior is crucial because it helps us design interventions that address the root cause, rather than just the symptoms.
Four Main Functions of Behavior
There are four primary functions of behavior, each serving a distinct need or desire for the individual. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
Attention
Some behaviors occur because the individual is seeking attention from others, whether it’s positive (praise) or negative (scolding). This could be attention from a parent, teacher, peer, or any significant person in their life.
For example, a child may engage in disruptive behavior, like shouting or throwing toys, to get the attention of a caregiver. Even if the attention is negative (e.g., scolding), it may still serve the purpose of getting noticed.
Escape/Avoidance
Another common function of behavior is to escape or avoid something. This could include avoiding a task, a situation, or even sensory discomfort. The individual may engage in behaviors to avoid demands that they find unpleasant or overwhelming. A child may refuse to complete an assignment, or engage in behavior like tantrums or running away, to avoid a task they find difficult or unenjoyable.
Access to Tangibles
Sometimes, individuals engage in behavior to gain access to a tangible item or activity that they want. This could be anything from a preferred toy to access to screen time or a favorite snack. For instance, a child might scream or throw a toy to gain access to a specific toy they want to play with, especially if the child has learned that this behavior results in getting the desired item.
Automatic Reinforcement
Some behaviors are self-reinforcing because they provide sensory feedback that feels good to the individual. These behaviors are not directly influenced by others, but rather by the internal satisfaction or sensory pleasure they provide.
In this case, a child might spin in circles or flap their hands. This is due to the calming or stimulating sensation that feels intrinsically rewarding, regardless of external attention or tangible rewards.
Why Identifying Functions Is Important in ABA
Identifying the function of a behavior is crucial for designing effective interventions. If we misinterpret the function, we might apply an intervention that doesn’t address the true cause of the behavior.
So if a child is engaging in disruptive behavior to get attention, simply removing the child from the situation (without teaching more appropriate ways to gain attention) could make the behavior worse.
When we understand the function of a behavior, we can personalize interventions that:
- Teach alternative, more appropriate behaviors: Instead of reinforcing the undesired behavior, we can reinforce an appropriate way to achieve the same goal.
- Reduce problem behaviors: Interventions can be structured to minimize reinforcement of unwanted behaviors.
- Promote social and functional skills: ABA therapy interventions can teach new skills that fulfill the same need in a more socially acceptable manner.
How ABA Therapists Identify Functions of Behavior
ABA therapists from Childwise ABA use a variety of methods to assess and determine the function of a behavior. These include:
- Direct Observation: Watching the behavior in context to understand when, where, and why it occurs.
- Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): A structured approach to gather information about the behavior, often involving interviews with caregivers and teachers, as well as direct observation.
- Data Collection: Tracking the behavior over time to identify patterns and triggers that might indicate the function.
By using these tools, ABA therapists can create a comprehensive understanding of the behavior. As a result, helping in selecting the most effective intervention.
Strategies to Address Different Functions
Once the function of a behavior has been identified, ABA professionals can develop strategies to address it. Here are some examples for each function:
- Attention: Reinforce positive behaviors that are more socially acceptable (like raising their hand to get attention). Provide attention when the child engages in appropriate behaviors rather than giving in to disruptive behaviors.
- Escape/Avoidance: Modify the demands (e.g., breaking down tasks into smaller steps) to make them more manageable or teach the child to communicate when they need a break.
- Access to Tangibles: Teach the child how to ask for the item appropriately (e.g., using words or sign language). Reinforce positive communication rather than disruptive behaviors.
- Automatic Reinforcement: Provide alternative activities that fulfill the same sensory need, such as using sensory toys or engaging in activities that provide similar feedback (e.g., deep pressure or movement activities).
Conclusion
Identifying the function of behavior is essential for designing individualized interventions in ABA therapy. Understanding the function behind a behavior helps ABA therapists develop strategies that focus on the root issue.
Childwise ABA, an ABA therapy in Ohio, Michigan, and Colorado, is committed to helping individuals thrive by addressing behaviors at their core. If you’d like to learn more about how ABA can help, contact us and schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced specialists.