Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
A systematic process for determining the underlying purpose or 'function' of a challenging behaviour.
A Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) is a multi-step process designed to uncover why a behaviour occurs - whether to access attention, escape a demand, gain a tangible item, or for sensory stimulation.
The process typically involves:
- Indirect assessments: Interviews and rating scales with caregivers.
- Direct assessments: Observational data collection (like ABC data) in the natural environment.
- Experimental analysis: Systematically testing variables (when necessary).
The resulting hypothesis directly informs how you build your Behaviour Intervention Plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a functional behaviour assessment (FBA)?
An FBA is a systematic process for working out why a behaviour happens — whether it functions to access attention, escape a demand, gain a tangible, or for sensory stimulation. The resulting hypothesis drives the behaviour intervention plan.
What are the steps of an FBA?
Indirect assessment (interviews and rating scales), direct assessment (ABC data and observation in the natural setting), and, when necessary, an experimental functional analysis to test variables directly.
What is the difference between an FBA and a functional analysis?
An FBA is the whole process of identifying function; a functional analysis is one component of it — the experimental step that systematically manipulates conditions to confirm the function.