Functional Behavioral Assessment of Problem Behavior

Description of the Strategy

One of the major concerns of parents, teachers, and other caregivers in applied settings such as classrooms is the occurrence of problem behaviors. These can range from mildly disruptive behaviors, such as students’ talking out or getting out of their seats, to severe behaviors, such as self-injury, aggression toward others, and destruction of materials and property. Students who engage in problem behaviors, regardless of their labels or diagnoses, are much more likely to be placed in more restrictive educational placements (e.g., self-contained classrooms or schools) and to be suspended or expelled. Beyond the school setting, such behavior patterns place tremendous stress on parents and families, jeopardize opportunities for participation in residential and vocational programs and settings, and tax limited ...