Special Education April 2014 | Page 8

A functional behavioral assessment, or FBA, is a process that searches for explanation of the purpose behind a problem behavior. It is when information is gathered about factors that reliably predict and maintain problem behavior in order to develop more effective intervention plans.

hy are FBA's conducted?

o To help increase the understanding of the cause of behavior(s).

o To increase the chance of positive student outcomes.

o To emphasize skill building, not punishment.

o To assist in gathering information which drives the development of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).

hen are FBA's conducted?

o FBAs are required, by law, when conducting an evaluation which addresses the categorical area of Emotional/Behavioral

Disorders.

o FBAs must be conducted, by law, in response to disciplinary actions by school personnel. The individualized education program (IEP) team must, within 10 days, meet to develop an FBA plan to collect information; this information should be used for developing or reviewing and revising an existing BIP to address such behaviors.

W

What is a Functional Behavioral Assessment?

FBA?

BIP?

A-B-C?

W

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