Functions of Behavior in ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a scientifically proven approach that focuses on understanding and modifying behaviors. ABA therapy utilizes evidence-based techniques and principles to improve socially significant behaviors and increase functional skills. It involves breaking down complex behaviors into smaller, manageable components and systematically teaching and reinforcing them. ABA therapists employ strategies such as positive reinforcement, prompting, and shaping to help individuals acquire new skills and reduce problematic behaviors.

In ABA therapy, behaviors are viewed as a form of communication used by children to express their needs or wants. Understanding the function of a behavior is crucial to addressing the underlying cause rather than just the behavior itself. There are generally four main functions of behavior. The predominant four functions of behavior are attention, escape, access, and sensory needs. These four functions allow us to understand and categorize someone’s actions, as well as determine why behaviors occur.                                                     

1.Escape

Escape is one of the most common functions. This occurs when people engage in certain behaviors in order to avoid or end an unpleasant experience. A child may behave in a certain way that is unacceptable to get out of doing something they don’t want to do. 

For example, if a child does not want to complete a puzzle or read a book, she or he may run away from the therapist to avoid the instructional activity. Token systems can be effective in treating escape behaviors since this structure allows for designated time for both play and instruction. Other examples of this could be sleeping in class to avoid working or taking a different route home to avoid traffic.

2.Attention

The first function of behavior is attention. Attention-seeking behavior occurs when someone desires feedback or a response from another person. Crying and throwing tantrums are great examples of childhood attention-seeking habits. To dissuade attention-seeking behavior, the key is to ignore problem behaviors, as this demonstrates that negative behaviors won't be rewarded. Attention seekers may settle for any type of attention, whether positive or negative.

Examples of attention include: 

  • Praise, such as cheering and words of affirmation

  • Scolding, saying no, or moving a child’s hand away 

  • Redirecting your attention to your child 

  • Showing disappointment or frustration with facial expressions and body language

 

3.Access To Tangibles

Access to tangibles is somewhat self-explanatory, but it is also very important. Children may engage in certain behaviors because they are looking to gain access to something. For example, wanting a cookie. That cookie is a strong reinforcement for the child, so he or she will engage in interfering behaviors to get the cookie. While it is acceptable to reinforce your child’s positive behaviors with tangibles, remember that this is a function of behavior. Keep in mind that access-related behaviors occur surrounding items the child can’t access independently.

When trying to access a tangible reward, a child may:

  • Beg

  • Scream, cry, or throw a tantrum

  • Hit or bite

  • Grab the item away from someone else

 

4.Sensory Stimulation (Automatic)

Sensory stimulation (also known as sensory needs) is the final function of behavior. Sensory stimulation occurs when children want to experience a pleasant sensation or replace discomfort. Children may also seek stimulation to sensitize or desensitize, depending on their sensory needs. 

Sensory stimulation can manifest itself in several ways, such as: 

  • Jumping

  • Skipping

  • Hand-flapping

  • Tapping feet

  • Rocking back and forth

Methods for Assessing Functions of Behavior

Behavioral assessment is a key component of ABA therapy. The most common methods include:

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): It involves systematically gathering information about a person's behavior to determine the function or purpose behind it. Understanding the function of behavior helps therapists develop effective intervention strategies tailored to the individual's needs.

ABC Analysis (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence): This method tracks what happens before and after a behavior occurs to determine its function.

Direct Observation: Therapists observe the child in different settings to see how various environments influence behavior.

Strategies for Addressing Different Functions of Behavior

Once the function of a behavior is understood, specific strategies can be employed:

For Attention-Seeking Behaviors: Therapists might implement an intervention where attention is given for positive behaviors and withheld during negative behaviors, except when necessary for safety.

For Escape-Motivated Behaviors: Teaching alternative communication skills or adjusting the demand level can be effective.

For Access-Related Behaviors: Therapists may work on teaching the child to request their needs in an appropriate manner.

For Sensory Behaviors: Introducing alternative sensory activities that fulfill the child’s sensory needs without causing disruption or harm.