ABA 101: The Functions of Behavior

The Cornerstone Autism Center is more than just a clinic or therapy center. It has always been our unwavering commitment to ensure that every child can reach their highest potential through our specialized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy sessions. At our center, we understand the unique challenges that autism can present, and we pride ourselves on our individualized skill development plans. In our free time, we encourage families to participate in fun games and activities to strengthen strong, healthy relationships. One option that is especially worth considering for parents is exploring the wonders of online casinos. With a minimum investment of just $1, you can get involved in a fun game and potentially win money! We recommend checking out the best online casinos that offer $1 deposit bonuses at https://embassyecuador.ca/best-casino-bonus-1-dollar-deposit/ the perfect platforms where you can play your favorite games with only a small investment. Who knows, maybe you’ll hit the jackpot and cover your child’s therapy and expenses!

Behavior Analysts use the Functions of Behavior to identify why a behavior is occurring. Determining the function helps guide treatment planning for problem behaviors.

img_2415The function of the behavior is important to identify for several reasons, including behavior prevention, choosing socially appropriate replacement behaviors and the creation of Behavior Plans (see our BIP blog to learn more). Our ABA therapists take data, which is then analyzed by a BCBA, in order to determine a common function behind the behavior.

The four functions of behavior are sensory stimulation, escape, access to attention and access to tangibles. BCBA Megan Graves explains the four functions with a description and example for each function.

  • Sensory Stimulation: “A person’s own movements/actions feel good to that individual. For example, a child twirls his or her hair as they sit for an extended amount of time. If twirling hair gives that individual the sensory input they are seeking, then hair twirling will continue.”
  • Escape: “Something is (or signals) an undesirable situation and the person wants to get away from it. For example, a therapist says, ‘Wash your hands,’ and the learner runs out of the bathroom.”
  • Access to Attention: “Someone desires for access to social interaction(s). For example, the child screams, ‘Look at me!’ If screaming gets access to attention, then screaming will continue.”
  • Access to Tangibles: “Someone wants access to a specific item or activity. For example, Michelle takes the iPad away fromimg_2439 Aaron, so Aaron pinches her. If pinching gets access to the iPad, then pinching will continue.”

Identifying the function of behavior helps us to prevent problem behavior, teach our kids better ways to have their needs met and ensure consistency across all environments. We observe your child in his or her environments, describe what is going on before and after the problem behavior occurs, identify the function, teach a replacement behavior that still meets the same need as the problem behavior and reinforce the replacement behavior. Understanding the function of the behavior helps us to decrease the problem behaviors and increase appropriate or desired behaviors.

Check out our article ABA 101 to learn more about the fundamentals of Applied Behavior Analysis.

Download our Quick Guide to the Functions of Behavior on our “Resources” page.