Why Use FBA?

Toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more likely to display interfering behaviors than those with other intellectual disabilities (Dunlap, Robins, & Darrow, 1994; McClintock, Hall, & Oliver, 2003). Interfering behavior occurs for a reason and serves a specific function for the child (Horner, 1994).  Most interfering behavior is reinforced by the consequences that follow. The use of a functional behavior assessment (FBA) supports caregivers and service providers in helping the toddler engage in more appropriate behaviors by:

  • Providing information about when, where, and why problem behaviors occur,
  • Developing a behavior hypothesis,
  • Identifying reinforcers, and
  • Building effective and efficient behavioral support.

Behavior support strategies derived from FBA can be translated into IFSP outcomes and objectives in addressing functional skills and behaviors.