Functional Analysis (FA) is a systematic process conducted by behavior analysts to uncover the underlying functions that maintain problematic behaviors. By manipulating environmental conditions, FAs help reveal the purpose that these behaviors serve, providing invaluable insights for designing effective interventions. Let’s explore how a Full Functional Analysis is conducted and look at alternative approaches that are just as informative.
Full Functional Analysis (FA)
A Full FA involves the systematic manipulation of environmental conditions to observe how a learner’s behavior responds. Sessions typically range from 10 to 20 minutes, and while no standardized protocol exists, certain conditions are commonly implemented to explore the function of behavior.
Key Conditions in a Full FA:
- Social Positive (Attention) Condition:
In this condition, the therapist provides negative attention (e.g., scolding or reprimands) when the learner exhibits the target behavior. If the behavior increases, it suggests that attention is the reinforcing function. - Social Negative (Demand) Condition:
The therapist presents a demand to the learner. When the problem behavior occurs, the demand is temporarily removed for 30 seconds. A high rate of problem behavior in this condition suggests that escape from demands is likely the function. - Alone Condition:
In this condition, the learner is placed in an environment without access to attention, social interaction, or items. If the behavior increases, it indicates that the behavior may be maintained by automatic reinforcement (sensory stimulation). - Control (Play) Condition:
Here, the learner has unrestricted access to attention, preferred items, and no demands. This condition serves as a baseline to determine whether other conditions are distinct and impactful. If problem behavior persists in this condition, it may suggest that the conditions are not distinct or properly implemented. - Tangible Condition (Optional):
If there’s suspicion that the behavior is maintained by access to preferred items, this condition is implemented. The therapist places a desired item within reach, and if the learner exhibits problem behavior, they gain access to the item for 30 seconds.
Why Full FA?
Full FAs provide a comprehensive understanding of what motivates and reinforces a specific behavior. By manipulating different conditions, behavior analysts can determine the exact triggers and consequences that drive problematic behavior, guiding interventions that are tailored to the individual’s needs.
Abbreviated and Trial-Based Functional Analysis Approaches
While Full FAs are considered the “gold standard,” they can be time-consuming and require specialized expertise. To make the process more efficient without sacrificing effectiveness, alternative FA methods have been developed.
1. Brief FA:
This approach consists of one or two short sessions (5–10 minutes each) that alternate between conditions that trigger problem behavior and conditions that do not. It provides quick insights into the behavior’s function without the length of a full FA.
2. Synthesized FA:
In this variation, multiple contingencies (e.g., attention and escape) are introduced simultaneously in the test condition. In the control condition, the individual is exposed to the same reinforcers, but non-contingently. This method is often faster and still provides robust data.
3. Trial-Based FA:
Conducted in the natural environment, this approach involves brief conditions (around 1 minute) where a test condition is followed by a control condition. The process is repeated across various naturally occurring activities, making it practical for everyday settings.
4. Latency-Based FA:
This method is useful when the problem behavior is severe or dangerous. Here, the time interval from the start of the session to the first occurrence of the behavior is measured. The session ends immediately when the behavior occurs, reducing the risk of reinforcing dangerous behaviors.
5. FA of Precursors:
In cases of severe problem behavior, precursor behaviors (such as clenching fists before hitting) are analyzed instead of the target behavior. This reduces the risk of harm while still gathering data on the function of the behavior.
Analyzing FA Data
Once the FA is conducted, behavior analysts create a multi-element graph that visually represents how behavior changes across different conditions. This visual analysis helps determine which conditions are associated with an increase in problem behavior, shedding light on the function that the behavior serves.
Advantages of Functional Analyses
- Clear Understanding of Behavior:
FA offers clear, data-driven insights into what triggers and maintains problem behaviors. By identifying these variables, behavior analysts can design more effective and targeted interventions. - Tailored Treatments:
The data collected from FA helps in creating individualized, reinforcement-based treatments that are designed to meet the specific needs of the individual. - Gold Standard in Behavior Analysis:
FA is considered the most reliable way to determine the function of behavior, providing a solid foundation for intervention planning.
Challenges and Considerations
While FA offers many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Potential Reinforcement of Problem Behavior:
During the assessment, problem behaviors may be temporarily reinforced, which could increase their frequency in the short term. - Behavior May Acquire New Functions:
There’s a possibility that during the analysis, the behavior may develop new functions or become more complex, making it harder to treat. - Resource-Intensive:
Conducting a full FA requires specialized expertise and can be time-consuming, which may limit its feasibility in certain settings. - Limited External Validity:
In controlled settings, FA may not capture unique variables present in the individual’s natural environment, leading to incomplete data.
Conclusion
Functional Analyses, whether full or abbreviated, provide invaluable insights into the underlying causes of behavior. By systematically manipulating environmental conditions, behavior analysts can identify what drives problematic behaviors, ensuring that interventions are both effective and personalized. Although FAs can be resource-intensive, their ability to uncover the functions of behavior makes them an essential tool in Applied Behavior Analysis.
