F- 6 Functions of problematic behaviors

The functions of problem behaviors are the reasons why people perform these behaviors. Once the function of a behavior is identified, you can better understand the behavior and develop strategies to reduce or eliminate it.

There are four main functions of problem behaviors:

Sensory/Automatic: Behavior occurs to provide pleasant sensations or to aid emotional regulation. Examples: *Hitting your head against the table. *Chew the pencil. *Move your hands constantly.

Attention: The behavior occurs to attract the attention of others. Examples: *Scream. *Interrupt conversations. *Throw objects.

Tangibles/Achievement: Behavior occurs to obtain something the person wants or needs. Examples: *Order a pizza. *Throw a tantrum to get a toy. *Steal money.

Escape/Avoidance: The behavior occurs to reduce or avoid something that the person does not want or need. Examples: *Take an alternative route to work if there is a lot of traffic. *Hide under the bed.

It is important to identify the function of a problematic behavior so that effective strategies can be developed to reduce or eliminate it. Strategies must be aimed at modifying the consequences of the behavior so that it is no longer reinforced.