THE WHY. The Function of Behavior.

Let's talk about the function of behavior.

A real behavior analytic term.  One you may hear from your BCBA. It's not language that is used everyday, unless you're a BCBA. 

So let's break it down.

What is a function?

A function is a cause. A reason. The why.

If we understand the function, then we can address the root of the problem behavior. If we get to the root of the problem behavior, the child needs get met and they are happy and the behavior disappears and we are happy. A win-win for everyone.

Behaviors happen for one of four reasons. 

1. Sensory Seeking Behavior: A behavior that a child engages in in order to receive sensory feedback, a feel good feeling or relief from discomfort (can be sensory discomfort).

A sensory seeking behavior does not need another person to be present.  It’s often self soothing. 

i.e. scratching oneself, 

2. Escape Motivated Behavior: A behavior that a child is engaging in to avoid or ‘get away from’ performing a task or difficult work. 

i.e. I don't want to clean my room, I didn't want to do homework

3. Attention Seeking Behavior: A behavior whose purpose is to get a reaction from others-either positive or negative–praise or scolding. In short to be noticed or engaged by someone else. 

i.e. nagging, whining, making a joke, asking for a hug or doing something irritating to another person

4. Tangible: A behavior whose purpose is to gain access to a physical item. For example a child screams until he receives the treat or toy that he wants. 

The only way to really truly understand what the function of a behavior is, is to look at what actually stops the behavior. Whatever that is–whether it's obtaining the desired item, a parents attention–positive or negative, getting away with not cleaning up their room. This tells a story, the story of the why behind your child's behavior.