What Students and Educators Can Teach Us About Functional Behavior Assessment and Intervention in the Classroom (CP)

Abstract: The use of functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to inform treatment recommendations has long been established as best practice in behavior analysis from both ethical and empirical standpoints. However, the practicalities of conducting various forms of FBA (and implementing subsequent interventions) in schools sometimes poses obstacles for behavior analysts and the teachers with whom they work. The degree to which these obstacles can (and should) be overcome depends on a variety of factors that might be missed if one does not carefully consider the nature of the problems and the environments in which behaviors are expected to occur. Drawing upon nearly two decades of research and clinical work in schools, Dr. Austin will address how considering teacher and student behavior can potentially point us to more effective, efficient, and acceptable practices in conducting classroom-based assessments and interventions.