ABC DAT And FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT SCREENING TOOL

Conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
select a learner for this project and obtain requisite permissions (participant, parent/guardian, employer as applicable) to conduct a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) for one challenging behavior exhibited by the learner.
Complete an intake interview with parent/caregiver and/or staff using the Functional Assessment Screening Tool (FASTLinks to an external site.) and score according to the instructions on the document.
Operationalize the challenging behavior to be targeted for assessment based on the FAST interview.
Complete an ABC data sheet for a minimum of 5 separate incidences of the target challenging behavior. May be either Continuous Recording (time limited) or a Narrative Recording (per episode) ABC (student choice).
Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence (ABC) Data Analysis
Clearly and objectively describe the maintaining contingencies for the target behavior.
Were any MOs and/or setting events identified?
Identify the most common/likely antecedent stimulus.
Identify the most common consequence(s).

Full Answer Section

   

Steps of an FBA:

  1. Select a learner and obtain permissions. Choose someone you have a proper relationship with and permission to assess.
  2. Conduct an intake interview. Use the FAST tool (linked below) to gather information about the learner's background, challenging behavior, and context. Score and interpret the results.
  3. Operationalize the target behavior. Choose a specific, observable, and measurable challenging behavior to focus on based on the interview and observations. Define it clearly for data collection consistency.
  4. Collect ABC data. Choose either Continuous Recording (tracks frequency over time) or Narrative Recording (describes each episode). Record at least 5 instances of the behavior, noting:
    • Antecedent: Events or situations before the behavior (e.g., instructions, transitions, lack of attention).
    • Behavior: The specific action or inaction you're targeting (e.g., tantrum, withdrawal, refusal).
    • Consequence: Events or situations following the behavior (e.g., adult attention, escape from task, time-out).
  5. Analyze ABC data. Look for patterns to understand what triggers the behavior (antecedents) and maintains it (consequences). Identify:
    • Maintaining contingencies: situations/consequences reinforcing the behavior (e.g., getting out of tasks through crying).
    • MOs (Multiplicative Outcomes): events increasing the behavior's likelihood (e.g., getting extra attention through tantrums).
    • Setting events: factors influencing behavior susceptibility (e.g., fatigue, hunger).
    • Most common/likely antecedent and consequence(s).

Sample Answer

   

Important Disclaimers:

  • Always obtain written consent from parents/guardians and relevant authorities before conducting an FBA.
  • FBAs are complex and require professional expertise. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional guidance.