FBA

A functional behavior assessment (FBA) is defined as a systematic method of assessment for obtaining information about the purpose (functions) a problem behavior serves for a person; results are used to guide the design of an intervention for decreasing the problem behavior and increasing appropriate behavior.  (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2007)  According to Glasberg, the purpose of an FBA is to identify the function of the behavior using indirect assessment and direct assessment. Behavior Analysts prefer direct assessment; it is a lot more reliable and measureable.  Professionals use FBA’s to find “What message is that behavior communicating”.  (Glasberg, 2006)

The process and instrument developed by the St. Claire County Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) could be a great tool to use in public schools.  The data sheet they use is informative and to the point.  However there is a significant, potential problem with this data sheet.  It asks the person filling it out to estimate the current rate of behavior.  One of the main purposes of an FBA is to reduce the problem behavior.  If the teacher or parent does not have any data on the current rate of behavior, there is no way to definitively say if the occurrences of the behavior are reduced when the new behavior plan is implemented.  Asking someone to estimate the occurrences of a problem behavior is a mistake.  The estimate may change depending on someone’s mood, or how much the behavior bothers that person.  They could easily under or over estimate the occurrences of the problem behavior.  RESA should add a data sheet to their FBA form, and ask teachers, parents and anyone else who fills it out to take data on the problem behavior for at least a few days.  I would also add automotive reinforcement (sensory) to list of possible functions of behavior.  It is important to realize that some behavior have automatic reinforcement.

I think if I modified the RESA tools I could use them in my classroom.  I would also be able to use it in home services with a few changes.  I find the hypothesis a very useful tool in working to address problem behaviors with ASD individuals.  It is very important to be able to identify why someone is behaving in a certain way.  I also think that the RESA tools and video would be helpful to show parents.  The video is simple and informative and would help me explain to parents what I am doing and why I am doing it, as well as explain why their cooperation and participation is important.  In conclusion I would personally rather use the tools provided by Glasberg than the tools provided by RESA because the Glasberg tools are more informative and in-depth.