Functional Behavior Assessment
Prompt: Find an article on Academic Search Complete on the Belhaven Library website for “functional behavioral assessment” and “ADHD”. Write a
descriiption of the child’s problem behavior. Then, explain how the functional behavioral assessment (FBA) was used to determine the function of the
behavior. Next, using the same method, find another article to describe how a contingency-based self-management plan was used to address the problem
behavior within the context of its apparent function.
In order to understand why these problem behaviors were occurring, FBA was utilized by conducting interviews with both boys’ parents and teachers, collecting data from their daily records, observing playground activities at school through video recordings and conducting structured functional analysis tests during free play period. Through careful examination of all this information it was concluded that in one boy's case the motivation for his behaviour stemmed from obtaining attention from adults while the other seemed motivated by escaping tasks he found difficult or unpleasant. Knowing exactly what prompted each child's behaviour allowed them devise more effective interventions tailored specifically around those needs.
Another article found on Academic Search Complete titled “Integrating Contingency-Based Self-Management Intervention Into Treatment Environments: A Case Study With an Adolescent Diagnosed With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” explains how contingency-based self-management plans can be used to address problem behaviours associated with ADHD. The subject involved in this case was a 14 year old male who had difficulty managing his emotions resulting in outbursts like arguing or refusal when faced with certain tasks or when asked questions by adults; something he himself identified as being problematic due to its widespread occurrence within his family and school environment..
To resolve this issue a self-management plan which focused on linking rewards like compliments, praise etc., after successful completion of set goals was implemented; addressing concerns related not only impulse control but also interpersonal relationships skills development (which were lacking due various disruptive behaviours exhibited). This plan proved very effective over time thanks consistent follow up activity provided by adults involved meaning immediate feedback regarding consequences attached to specific behaviours whenever they occurred i.e positive reinforcement when appropriate mannerisms were displayed while negative punishments dished out if unfavourable ones took place.
Overall both articles demonstrate how useful FBA is for understanding what drives certain types of undesirable behaviour allowing us develop much needed interventions tailored around those needs followed up consistently ensuring