4 Participation in Functional Assessment Free Online FlashCards

What is the goal of functional behavior assessment?

Functional behavior assessment systematically examines conditions associated with a behavior so the team can improve support, not assign blame or punishment.

What can indirect assessment establish about behavioral function?

Indirect assessment gathers reports from people who know the person, along with records, interviews, or questionnaires. It suggests what to investigate but does not prove a behavioral function.

What does descriptive assessment reveal, and what can it not prove?

Descriptive assessment directly observes behavior in ordinary settings and records events before and after it. It identifies associations, but does not establish that an event caused the behavior.

How does functional analysis test a behavioral hypothesis?

Functional analysis tests a hypothesis by systematically changing environmental conditions and measuring behavior. It requires appropriate expertise, planning, authorization, and oversight.

What does a preference assessment identify?

A preference assessment identifies items or activities a person may prefer and can help select possible reinforcers. By itself, it does not determine why a behavior occurs.

What limits apply to a staff member’s FBA participation?

A staff member or trainee may gather information and observations only within their training, assigned role, and supervisor’s direction.

What is an operational definition of behavior?

An operational definition is an observable description of what counts as the behavior being assessed.

What sequence does ABC data record?

ABC data record observable events in order: antecedent, behavior, then consequence.

How should observers distinguish facts from interpretations?

Record observable actions and statements, not interpretations. For example, write “pushed the worksheet away,” not “was defiant.”

Why gather background information from multiple sources?

Reports may differ, so multiple sources can provide useful information. Gather them as directed and avoid presenting guesses as facts.

What must an observer avoid when collecting data?

Do not provoke behavior, withhold support, change consequences, or alter routines to test a theory unless a qualified supervisor explicitly authorizes and trains you for that procedure.

What should you do if risk increases during observation?

If risk increases, the situation differs from the plan, or you are unsure what to do, prioritize safety and contact the supervisor rather than continuing data collection.