Functional Behavior Assessment

When an IEP team determines that a behavioral intervention is needed, the process generally begins with an assessment of the problem behaviors function. This is gathered during a functional behavior assessment.

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a systematic process of describing problem behavior and identifying the environmental factors and surrounding events associated with problem behavior. This information is used to develop an effective plan for reducing the frequency or severity of problem behavior, and to identify and teach more appropriate replacement behavior. Observation is conducted to determine the antecedents and consequences of the identified problem behavior. The demands of the environment(s) in which the behavior occurs may be setting events and/or predictors of the behavior.

Sample Forms for District Use - Sample forms for the FBA process and for BIPs are included in this Resources section. The forms provided are samples which districts may choose to use. Many districts have created or selected their own process and forms for their teachers to use. Each blank form in this section is followed by a completed copy of the same form as an example of its application to a specific student's behavior.

Links/Publications - The following list contains sample resources for more information on positive behavioral supports, Functional Behavior Assessment, Behavior Intervention Plans, and working with students who have behavioral or emotional challenges.

(These resources are examples of materials which may be utilized, but are not a mandatory part of the LRBI Rule. Web sites and publications are also included for information purposes only. This is not an exhaustive list of the resources available)