
As a parent, you've likely found yourself wondering, "Why is my child behaving this way?" or "What's behind their repetitive behavior?" At Pathways to Potential, we believe that understanding the underlying reasons behind your child's behavior is crucial in developing effective supports and strategies. That's why we're excited to dive into the concept of "behavior function," and provide you with practical examples and tips to help you identify the why behind your child's behavior.
What is Behavior Function?
Behavior function refers to the underlying reason or motivation behind a behavior. Just like how a puzzle piece fits into a specific spot, behavior function is about identifying the purpose or function that a behavior serves for your child. There are four primary functions of behavior: Attention, Tangible, Sensory and Self-Soothing, or Escape/Avoidance.
Examples of Each Function
Let's consider a few examples to illustrate each function:
Attention Function: Your child, Emma, makes a loud noise and runs to you for a hug (behavior) because they want attention and to get close to you (attention function). When you give them attention, they repeat the behavior.
This can also happen with more negative behaviors, because the attention may be sought out in a less desirable way. In this scenario, your child knocked items off the table (behavior) because they wanted to distract you from talking to someone on the phone (attention).
Tangible Function, Your child, Rory, engages in crying behavior (behavior) when you tell him it is time to clean up his toys (access to items).
Sensory/Self Soothing Function: Your child, Max, engages in loud humming (behavior) to get a sensory experience (sensory function). When he hums to himself, he gets a calming sensation.
Escape/Avoidance Function: Your child, Lily, escapes from a crowded environment by hiding (behavior) because it's a way for her to manage anxiety and escape from the overwhelming situation (escape/avoidance function). When you help her find a quieter space, she repeats the behavior.
Practicing at Home:
Now that you've learned about each function, let's practice identifying the function behind your child's behavior. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Describe the Behavior: Write down a specific behavior your child exhibits, such as crying or loud humming.
2. Identify the Antecedent: What happens before the behavior? Is it when they're in a crowded place, or when they're frustrated?
3. Analyze the Behavior: What does the behavior look like? Is it loud, energetic, or repetitive?
4. Determine the Consequence: What happens after the behavior? Does it get attention, lead to a sensory experience, help them get access to a preferred item, or escape the environment?
5. Identify the Function: Based on the steps above, ask yourself, "What's the underlying reason or motivation behind this behavior?"
Tips and Strategies:
1. Use Behavioral Observations: Write down observations of your child's behavior, including time, place, and context.
2. Consult with a Professional: If you're unsure about the function behind your child's behavior, consult with a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or your child's therapist.
3. Develop Alternative Behaviors: Identify alternative behaviors that meet the same function, such as asking for more time with an item before cleaning up, or getting parents attention by tapping them on the shoulder.
4. Provide Opportunities for Choice: Offer choices to help your child feel more in control, which can reduce the likelihood of challenging behaviors.
5. Stay Calm and Patient: Remember that understanding the why behind your child's behavior takes time and patience. Stay calm, and continue to provide supportive and loving interactions.
If you want some free resources to document your information, see below for some of our favorites from the Teachers Pay Teachers store:
1. Free Digital ABC Data sheet by Beltran’s Behavior Basics: HERE
2. Free ABC Data Collection Sheet to Print by Everyday Teaching Autism Resources: HERE
By understanding the function behind your child's behavior, you'll be better equipped to develop effective supports and strategies that meet their unique needs. At Pathways to Potential, we're committed to helping you unlock your child's full potential and navigate the world of ABA. Stay tuned for more blog posts, tips, and resources to support your journey!
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