Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Functional Analysis of Problem Behavior

  • Chapter
  • First Online:
Handbook of Crisis Intervention and Developmental Disabilities

Part of the book series: Issues in Clinical Child Psychology ((ICCP))

Abstract

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are at an increased risk for severe problem behavior such as self-injury, aggression, disruption, and stereotypy. Thus, problem behavior exhibited by individuals with IDD is of significant concern because it poses challenges to habilitation programs for these individuals and also because the behavior may jeopardize the health and safety of the individual or others. Functional behavior assessment (FBA) has become the dominant approach to assessment and treatment of problem behavior. Although several formal methods of FBA exist, this chapter focuses on the experimental method or functional analysis (FA), explains the FA approach to assessment, describes the essential features of conducting the “typical” FA, and offers suggestions for procedural modifications to typical FA methodology that may be required under certain circumstances.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Log in via an institution
Chapter
USD 29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD 299.00
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD 379.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info
Hardcover Book
USD 379.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

Notes

  1. 1.

     Here, “experimental” does not refer to the level of empirical support for these procedures; rather, that behavior is directly manipulated in a scientific manner.

  2. 2.

     A detailed review of the results of the past three decades of FA research is beyond the scope of this chapter; for a more comprehensive review, see Hanley et al. (2003).

  3. 3.

     Although the mechanism of maintenance for behavior that occurs in the alone condition may be debated (e.g., Lewis, Baumeister, & Mailman, 1987), this definition of automatic reinforcement has been generally accepted for practical assessment and treatment reasons.

References

  • Ahearn, W. H., Clark, K. M., & MacDonal, R. P. F. (2007). Assessing and treating vocal stereotypy in children with autism. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 40, 263–275.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Asmus, J. M., Franzese, J. C., Conroy, M. A., & Dozier, C. L. (2003). Clarifying functional analysis outcomes for disruptive behaviors by controlling consequence delivery for stereotypy. School Psychology Review, 32, 624–630.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bailey, J. S., & Pyles, D. A. M. (1989). Behavioral diagnostics. In E. Cipani (Ed.), The treatment of severe behavior disorders: Behavior analysis approach (pp. 85–107). Washington, DC: American Association on Mental Retardation.

    Google Scholar 

  • Baker, J. C., Hanley, G. P., & Mathews, R. M. (2006). Staff-administered functional analysis and treatment of aggression by an elder with dementia. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 39, 469–474.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Barlow, D. H., & Hayes, S. C. (1979). Alternating treatments design: One strategy for comparing the effects of two treatments in a single subject. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 12, 199–210.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Barretto, A., Wacker, D. P., Harding, J., Lee, J., & Berg, W. K. (2006). Using telemedicine to conduct behavioral assessments. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 39, 333–340.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Beavers, G. A., & Iwata, B. A. (2011). Prevalence of multiply controlled problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 593–597.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Behavior Analysis Certification Board Website. http://www.bacb.com Accessed 09 Feb 2013.

  • Betz, A. M., & Fisher, W. W. (2011). Functional analysis: History and methods. In W. W. Fisher, C. C. Piazza, & H. S. Roane (Eds.), Handbook of applied behavior analysis. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bijou, S. W., Peterson, R. F., & Ault, M. H. (1968). A method to integrate descriptive and experimental field studies at the level of data and empirical concepts. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 1, 175–191.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Bloom, S. E., Iwata, B. A., Fritz, J. N., Roscoe, E. M., & Carreau, A. B. (2008). Classroom application of a trial-based functional analysis. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 19–31.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Borrero, C. S. W., & Borrero, J. C. (2008). Descriptive and experimental analyses of potential precursors to problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 41, 83–96.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Borrero, C. S. W., & Vollmer, T. R. (2006). Experimental analysis of multiply controlled problem behavior: A systematic replication and extension. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 39, 375–379.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Borrero, C. S. W., Vollmer, T. R., & Borrero, J. C. (2004). Combining descriptive and functional analysis logic to evaluate idiosyncratic variables maintaining aggression. Behavioral Interventions, 19, 247–262.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Borrero, J. C., Vollmer, T. R., Wright, C. S., Lerman, D. C., & Kelley, M. E. (2002). Further evaluation of the role of protective equipment in the functional analysis of self-injurious behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 35, 69–72.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Bowman, L. G., Fisher, W. W., Thompson, R. H., & Piazza, C. C. (1997). On the relation of mands and the function of destructive behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 30, 251–265.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Brossart, D. F., Parker, R. I., Olson, E. A., & Mahadevan, L. (2006). The relationship between visual analysis and five statistical analyses in a simple AB single-case research design. Behavior Modification, 30, 531–563.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Broussard, C. D., & Northup, J. (1995). An approach to functional assessment and analysis of disruptive behavior in regular education classrooms. School Psychology Quarterly, 10, 151–164.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Call, N. A., Pabico, R. S., & Lomas, J. E. (2009). Use of latency to problem behavior to evaluate demands for inclusion in functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 723–728.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Call, N. A., Wacker, D. P., Ringdahl, J. E., & Boelter, E. W. (2005). Combined antecedent variables as motivating operations within functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 38, 385–389.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Camp, E. M., Iwata, B. A., Hammond, J. L., & Bloom, S. E. (2009). Antecedent versus consequent events as predictors of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 469–483.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Carr, E. G., Robinson, S., & Palumbo, L. W. (1990). The wrong issue: Aversive versus nonaversive treatment. The right issue: Functional versus nonfunctional treatment. In A. Repp & N. Singh (Eds.), Perspectives on the use of nonaversive and aversive interventions for persons with developmental disabilities (pp. 361–379). Sycamore, IL: Sycamore Publishing Company.

    Google Scholar 

  • Carter, S. L. (2005). An empirical analysis of the effects of a possible sinus infection and weighted vest on functional analysis outcomes of self-injury exhibited by a child with autism. Journal of Early and Intensive Behavior Intervention, 2, 252–258.

    Google Scholar 

  • Condillac, R. A. (2007). Behavioral intervention and intellectual disabilities. In I. Brown & M. Percy (Eds.), A comprehensive guide to intellectual and developmental disabilities (pp. 363–372). Baltimore: Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company.

    Google Scholar 

  • Conners, J., Iwata, B. A., Kahng, S., Hanley, G. P., Worsdell, A. S., & Thompson, R. H. (2000). Differential responding in the presence and absence of discriminative stimuli during multielement functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33, 299–308.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Contrucci-Kuhn, S. A., & Triggs, M. (2009). Analysis of social variables when an initial functional analysis indicates automatic reinforcement as the maintaining variable for self-injurious behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 679–683.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied behavior analysis. New York: Macmillan.

    Google Scholar 

  • Day, H. M., Horner, R. H., & O’Neill, R. E. (1994). Multiple functions of problem behaviors: Assessment and treatment. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27, 279–289.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • DeLeon, I. G., Kahng, S. W., Rodriguez-Catter, V., Ingibjorg, S., & Sadler, C. (2003). Assessment of aberrant behavior maintained by wheelchair movement in a child with developmental disabilities. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 24, 381–390.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Derby, K. M., Wacker, D. P., Peck, S., Sasso, G., DeRaad, A., Berg, W., et al. (1994). Functional analysis of separate topographies of aberrant behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27, 267–278.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Derby, K. M., Wacker, D. P., Sasso, G., Steege, M., Northup, J., Cigrand, K., et al. (1992). Brief functional assessment techniques to evaluate aberrant behavior in an outpatient setting: A summary of 79 cases. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 25, 713–721.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Didden, R., Duker, P. C., & Korzilius, H. (1997). Meta-analytic study on the treatment effectiveness for problem behaviors with individuals with mental retardation. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 101, 387–399.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Durand, V. M., & Crimmins, D. B. (1988). Identifying the variables maintaining self-injurious behavior. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 18, 99–117.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • English, C. L., & Anderson, C. M. (2004). Effects of familiar versus unfamiliar therapists on responding in the analog functional analysis. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 25, 39–55.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Fisher, W. W., Lindauer, S. E., Alterson, C. J., & Thompson, R. H. (1998). Assessment and treatment of destructive behavior maintained by stereotypic object manipulation. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 31, 513–527.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Fisher, W. W., Ninness, H. A. C., Piazza, C. C., & Owen-DeSchryver, J. S. (1996). On the reinforcing effects of the content of verbal attention. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 29, 235–238.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Flood, W. A., Wilder, D. A., Flood, A. L., & Masuda, A. (2002). Peer-mediated reinforcement plus prompting as treatment for off-task behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 35, 199–204.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Frieder, J. E., Peterson, S. M., Woodward, J., Crane, J., & Garner, M. (2009). Teleconsultation in school settings: Linking classroom teachers and behavior analysts through web-based technology. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 2, 32–39.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Fritz, J. N., Iwata, B. A., Hammond, J. L., & Bloom, S. E. (2008, July). Empirical analysis of precursors to problem behavior. Paper presented at the meeting of the Psychological Society of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gresham, F. M., Quinn, M., & Restori, A. (1998). Methodological issues in functional analysis: Generalizability to other disability groups. Behavioral Disorders, 24, 180–182.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hagopian, L. P., Fisher, W. W., Thompson, R. H., Owen-DeSchryver, J., Iwata, B. A., & Wacker, D. P. (1997). Toward the development of structured criteria for interpretation of functional analysis data. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 30, 313–326.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Hagopian, L. P., Rooker, G. W., Jessel, J., & Deleon, I. G. (in press). Initial functional analyses outcomes and modifications in pursuit of differentiation: A summary of 176 inpatient cases. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hagopian, L. P., Wilson, D. M., & Wilder, D. A. (2001). Assessment and treatment of problem behavior maintained by escape from attention and access to tangible items. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 34, 229–232.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Hammond, J. L., Iwata, B. A., Rooker, G. W., Fritze, J. N., & Bloom, S. E. (in press). Effects of fixed versus random sequencing during multielement functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hanley, G. P. (2010a). Prevention and treatment of severe problem behavior. In E. Mayville & J. Mulick (Eds.), Behavioral foundations of autism intervention. New York: Sloman Publishing.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hanley, G. P. (2010b). Functional analysis. In J. K. Luiselli (Ed.), Teaching and behavior support for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders: A “how to” practitioners guide. New York: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hanley, G. P., Heal, N. A., Tiger, J. H., & Invarsson, E. T. (2007). Evaluation of a classwide teaching program for developing preschool life skills. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 40, 277–300.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Hanley, G. P., Iwata, B. A., & McCord, B. E. (2003). Functional analysis of problem behavior: A review. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 36, 147–186.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Harris, S. L., & Glasberg, B. A. (2007). Functional behavior assessment in practice: Concepts and applications. In J. W. Jacobson, J. A. Mulick, & J. Rojahn (Eds.), Issues in clinical child psychology: Handbook of intellectual and developmental disabilities (pp. 317–332). New York: Springer.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Hausman, N., Kahng, S. W., Farrell, E., & Mongeon, C. (2009). Idiosyncratic functions: Severe problem behavior maintained by access to ritualistic behaviors. Education and Treatment of Children, 32, 77–87.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hayes, S. C., & Follette, W. C. (1993). The challenge faced by behavioral assessment. European Journal of Psychological Assessment, 9, 182–188.

    Google Scholar 

  • Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, Pub. L. No. 108-446; 20 U.S.C. §§ 1401 et seq.

    Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., & Deleon, I. G. (1996). Functional analysis screening tool (FAST). Gainesville: Florida Center for Self-Injury, University of Florida.

    Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., Dorsey, M. F., Slifer, K. J., Bauman, K. E., & Richman, G. S. (1994). Toward a functional analysis of self-injury. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27, 197–209. (Reprinted from Analysis and Intervention in Developmental Disabilities, 2, 3–20, 1982).

    Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., & Dozier, C. L. (2008). Clinical application of functional analysis methodology. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1, 3–15.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., Duncan, B. A., Zarcone, J. R., Lerman, D. C., & Shore, B. (1994). A sequential, test-control methodology for conducting functional analyses of self-injurious behavior. Behavior Modification, 18, 289–306.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., Kahng, S., Wallace, M. D., & Lindberg, J. S. (2000). The functional analysis model of behavioral assessment. In J. Austin & J. E. Carr (Eds.), Handbook of applied behavior analysis (pp. 61–89). Reno, NV: Context Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., Pace, G. M., Dorsey, M. F., Zarcone, J. R., Vollmer, T. R., Smith, R. G., et al. (1994). The functions of self-injurious behavior: An experimental-epidemiological analysis. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27, 215–240.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Iwata, B. A., Wallace, M. D., Kahng, S., Lindberg, J. S., Roscoe, E. M., Conners, J., et al. (2000). Skill acquisition in the implementation of functional analysis methodology. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33, 181–194.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Jones, K. M., Drew, H. A., & Weber, N. L. (2000). Noncontingent peer attention as treatment for disruptive classroom behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33, 343–346.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Kahng, S., Abt, K. A., & Schonbachler, H. E. (2001). Assessment and treatment of low-rate high-intensity problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 34, 225–228.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Kahng, S. W., Iwata, B. A., & Lewin, A. B. (2002). The impact of functional assessment on the treatment of self-injurious behavior. In S. Schroeder, M. Oster-Granite, & T. Thompson (Eds.), Self-injurious behavior: Gene-brain-behavior relationships (pp. 119–131). Washington: American Psychological Association.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Kennedy, C. H., & Meyer, K. A. (1996). Sleep deprivation, allergy symptoms, and negatively reinforced problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 29, 133–135.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Kodak, T., Northup, J., & Kelley, M. A. (2007). An evaluation of the types of attention that maintain problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 40, 167–171.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Kuhn, S. A. C., Lerman, D. C., & Vorndran, C. M. (2003). Pyramidal training for families of children with problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 36, 77–88.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Kurtz, P. F., Chin, M. D., Huete, J. M., Tarbox, R. S. F., O’Connor, J. T., Paclawskyj, T. R., et al. (2003). Functional analysis and treatment of self-injurious behavior in young children: A summary of 30 cases. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 36, 205–219.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Lang, R., Davis, T., O’Reilly, M., Machalicek, W., Rispoli, M., Sigafoos, J., et al. (2010). Functional analysis and treatment of elopement across two school settings. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 43, 113–118.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Langthorne, P., & McGill, P. (2011). Assessing the social acceptability of the functional analysis of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 403–407.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Larson, S. A., Lakin, K. C., Salmi, P., Scott, N., & Webster, A. (2010). Children and youth with intellectual or developmental disabilities living in congregate care settings (1977–2009): Healthy people 2010 objective 6.7b outcomes. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 48, 396–400.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • LaRue, R. H., Weiss, M. J., & Ferraioli, S. J. (2007). State of the art procedures for assessment and treatment of learners with behavior problems. International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, 4, 250–263.

    Google Scholar 

  • Le, D. D., & Smith, R. G. (2002). Functional analysis of self-injury with and without protective equipment. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 14, 277–290.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • LeBlanc, L. A., Hagopian, L. P., Marhefka, J. M., & Wilke, A. E. (2001). Effects of therapist gender and type of attention on assessment and treatment of attention-maintained destructive behavior. Behavioral Interventions, 16, 39–57.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lewis, M. H., Baumeister, A. A., & Mailman, R. B. (1987). A neurobiological alternative to the perceptual reinforcement hypothesis of stereotyped behavior: A commentary on Self-stimulatory behavior and perceptual reinforcement. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 20, 253–258.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Lewis, T. J., Scott, T. M., & Sugai, G. (1994). The Problem Behavior Questionnaire: A teacher-based instrument to develop functional hypotheses of problem behavior in general education classrooms. Diagnostique, 19, 103–115.

    Google Scholar 

  • Lowe, K., Allen, D., Jones, E., Brophy, S., Moore, K., & James, W. (2007). Challenging behaviours: Prevalence and topographies. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 51, 625–636.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Ma, H.-H. (2006). An alternative method for quantitative synthesis of single-subject researches: Percentage of data points exceeding the median. Behavior Modification, 30, 598–617.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Mace, F. C., Browder, D. M., & Lin, Y. (1987). Analysis of demand conditions associated with stereotypy. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 18, 25–31.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Mace, F. C., & Lalli, J. S. (1991). Linking descriptive and experimental analyses in the treatment of bizarre speech. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 24, 553–562.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Mace, F. C., Page, J. J., Ivancic, M. T., & O’Brien, S. (1986). Analysis of environmental determinants of aggression and disruption in mentally retarded children. Applied Research in Mental Retardation, 7, 203–221.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Machalicek, W., O’Reilly, M. F., Chan, J., Lang, R., Rispoli, M., Davis, T., et al. (2009). Using videoconferencing to conduct functional analysis of challenging behavior and develop classroom behavior support plans for students with autism. Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, 44, 207–217.

    Google Scholar 

  • Maes, B., Brokeman, T. G., Dosen, A., Nauts, J., et al. (2003). Caregiving burden of families looking after persons with intellectual disability and behavioral or psychiatric problems. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 47, 447–455.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Matson, J. L., & Vollmer, T. R. (1995). User’s guide: Questions about behavioral function (QABF). Baton Rouge, LA: Scientific Publishers.

    Google Scholar 

  • McComas, J., Hoch, H., Paone, D., & El-Roy, D. (2000). Escape behavior during academic tasks: A preliminary analysis of idiosyncratic establishing operations. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33, 479–493.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • McGinnis, M. A., Houchins-Juárez, N., McDaniel, J. L., & Kennedy, C. H. (2010). Abolishing and establishing operation analyses of social attention as positive reinforcement for problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 43, 119–123.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • McKerchar, T. L., Kahng, S., Casioppo, E., & Wilson, D. (2001). Functional analysis of self-injury maintained by automatic reinforcement: Exposing masked social functions. Behavioral Interventions, 16, 59–63.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Moore, J. W., Edwards, R. P., Sterling-Turner, H. E., Riley, J., DuBard, M., & McGeorge, A. (2002). Teacher acquisition of functional analysis methodology. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 35, 73–77.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Moore, J. W., Fisher, W. W., & Pennington, A. (2004). Systematic application and removal of protective equipment in the assessment of multiple topographies of self-injury. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 37, 73–77.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Mueller, M. M., Nkosi, A., & Hine, J. F. (2011). Functional analysis in public schools: A summary of 90 functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 807–818.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Najdowski, A. C., Wallace, M. D., Ellsworth, C. L., MacAleese, A. N., & Cleveland, J. M. (2008). Functional analyses and treatment of precursor behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 41, 97–105.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Neef, N. A. (1995). Pyramidal parent training by peers. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 28, 333–337.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Neidert, P. L., Iwata, B. A., & Dozier, C. L. (2005). Treatment of multiply controlled problem behavior with procedural variations of differential reinforcement. Exceptionality, 13, 45–53.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Northup, J., Wacker, D., Sasso, G., Steege, M., Cigrand, K., Cook, J., et al. (1991). A brief functional analysis of aggressive and alternative behavior in an outclinic setting. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 24, 509–522.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • O’Neill, R. E., Horner, R. H., Albin, R. W., Storey, K., & Sprague, J. R. (1990). Functional analysis of problem behavior: A practical assessment guide. Sycamore, IL: Sycamore Publishing Company.

    Google Scholar 

  • O’Reilly, M. F. (1997). Functional analysis of episodic self-injury correlated with recurrent otitis media. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 30, 165–167.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • O’Reilly, M. F., Lang, R., Davis, T., Rispoli, M., Machalicek, W., Sigafoos, J., et al. (2009). A systematic examination of different parameters of presession exposure to tangible stimuli that maintain problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 773–783.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Page, T. J., Iwata, B. A., & Reid, D. H. (1982). Pyramidal training: A large-scale application with institutional staff. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 15, 335–351.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Pelios, L., Morren, J., Tesch, D., & Axelrod, S. (1999). The impact of functional analysis methodology on treatment choice for self-injurious behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 32, 185–195.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Piazza, C. C., Bowman, L. G., Contrucci, S. A., Delia, M. D., Adelinis, J. D., & Goh, H.-L. (1999). An evaluation of the properties of attention as reinforcement for destructive and appropriate behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 32, 437–449.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Piazza, C. C., Hanley, G. P., & Fisher, W. W. (1996). Functional analysis and treatment of cigarette pica. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 29, 427–450.

    Google Scholar 

  • Plauche Johnson, C., Myers, S. M., & The Council on Children with Disabilities. (2007). Management of children with autism spectrum disorders. Pediatrics, 120, 1162–1182.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rapp, J. T. (2004). Effects of prior access and environmental enrichment on stereotypy. Behavioral Interventions, 19, 287–295.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Reimers, T. M., Wilder, D. P., Cooper, L. J., Sasso, G. M., Berg, W. K., & Steege, M. W. (1993). Assessing the functional properties of noncompliant behavior in an outpatient setting. Child & Family Behavior Therapy, 15, 1–15.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Richman, D. M., Wacker, D. P., Asmus, J. M., Casey, S. D., & Andelman, M. (1999). Further analysis of problem behavior in response class hierarchies. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 32, 269–283.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Ringdahl, J. E., & Sellers, J. A. (2000). The effects of different adults as therapists during functional analyses. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33, 247–250.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Rodriquez, N. M., Thompson, R. H., Schlichenmeyer, K., & Stocco, C. S. (2012). Functional analysis and treatment of arranging and ordering by individuals with an autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 45, 1–22.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rolider, N. U., Iwata, B. A., Camp, E. M., & Fritz, J. N. (2007, May). Functional analysis of low-rate problem behavior. Paper presented at the meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, San Diego, CA.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rooker, G. W., Iwata, B. A., Harper, J. M., Fahmie, T. A., & Camp, E. M. (2011). False-positive tangible outcomes of functional analysis. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 737–745.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Roscoe, E. M., Rooker, G. W., Pence, S. T., & Longworth, L. J. (2009). Assessing the utility of a demand assessment for functional analysis. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 819–825.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Rush, A. J., & Frances, A. (2000). Expert consensus guideline series: Treatment of psychiatric and behavioral problems in mental retardation. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 105, 159–228.

    Google Scholar 

  • Schlichenmeyer, K. J., Roscoe, E. M., Rooker, G. W., Wheeler, E. E., & Dube, W. V. (in press). Idiosyncratic variables affecting functional analysis outcomes: A review (2001–2010). Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.

    Google Scholar 

  • Scotti, J. R., Evans, I. M., Meyer, L. H., & Walker, P. (1991). A meta-analysis of intervention research with problem behavior: Treatment validity and standards of practice. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 96, 233–256.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Sherman, B. R. (1988). Predictors of the decision to place developmentally disabled family members in residential care. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 92, 344–351.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Shirley, M. J., Iwata, B. A., & Kahng, S. (1999). False-positive maintenance of self-injurious behavior by access to tangible reinforcers. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 32, 201–204.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Sigafoos, J., Kerr, M., Roberts, D., & Couzens, D. (1993). Reliability of structured interviews for the assessment of challenging behaviour. Behaviour Change, 10, 47–50.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sigafoos, J., & Saggers, E. (1995). A discrete trial approach to the functional analysis of aggressive behaviour in two boys with autism. Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 20, 287–297.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Smith, R. G., & Churchill, R. M. (2002). Identification of environmental determinants of behavior disorders through functional analysis of precursor behaviors. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 35, 125–136.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Smith, R. G., Iwata, B. A., Goh, H.-L., & Shore, B. A. (1995). Analysis of establishing operations for self-injury maintained by escape. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 28, 515–535.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Smith, R. G., Iwata, B. A., Vollmer, T. R., & Zarcone, J. R. (1993). Experimental analysis and treatment of multiply controlled self-injury. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 26, 183–196.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • St. Peter, C. C., Vollmer, T. R., Bourret, J. C., Borrero, C. S. W., Sloman, K. N., & Rapp, J. T. (2005). On the role of attention in naturally occurring matching relations. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 38, 429–443.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Sulzer-Azaroff, B., & Mayer, G. R. (1977). Applying behavior analysis procedures with children and youth. New York: Holt, Rinehart, & Winston.

    Google Scholar 

  • Tarbox, J., Wallace, M. D., Tarbox, R. S. F., Landaburu, H. J., & Williams, W. L. (2004). Functional analysis and treatment of low-rate problem behavior in individuals with developmental disabilities. Behavioral Interventions, 19, 73–90.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Taylor, J. C., & Carr, E. G. (1992). Severe problem behaviors related to social interaction; I. Attention seeking and social avoidance. Behavior Modification, 16, 305–335.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Taylor, J. C., Ekdahl, M. M., Romanezyk, R. G., & Miller, M. L. (1994). Escape behavior in task situations: Task versus social antecedents. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 24, 331–344.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Thomason-Sassi, J. L., Iwata, B. A., Neidert, P. L., & Roscoe, E. M. (2011). Response latency as an index of response strength during functional analyses of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 44, 51–67.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Thompson, R. H., & Iwata, B. A. (2007). A comparison of outcomes from descriptive and functional analyses of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 40, 333–338.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Tiger, J. H., Fisher, W. W., Toussaint, K. A., & Kodak, T. (2009). Progressing from initially ambiguous functional analyses: Three case examples. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 30, 910–926.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Touchette, P. E., MacDonald, R. F., & Langer, S. N. (1985). A scatter plot for identifying stimulus control of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 18, 343–351.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Ulman, J. D., & Sulzer-Azaroff, B. (1975). Multielement baseline design in educational research. In E. Ramp & G. Semb (Eds.), Behavior analysis: Areas of research and application (pp. 377–391). Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.

    Google Scholar 

  • Vollmer, T. R., Hagopian, L. P., Bailey, J. S., Dorsey, M. F., Hanley, G. P., Lennox, D., et al. (2011). The Association of Behavior Analysis International position statement on restraint and seclusion. Behavior Analyst, 34, 103–110.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Vollmer, T. R., Iwata, B. A., Duncan, B. A., & Lerman, D. C. (1993). Extensions of multielement functional analyses using reversal-type designs. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 5, 311–325.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Vollmer, T. R., Marcus, B. A., Ringdahl, J. E., & Roane, H. S. (1995). Progressing from brief assessments to extended experimental analyses in the evaluation of aberrant behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 28, 561–576.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Vollmer, T. R., Northup, J., Ringdahl, J. E., LeBlanc, L., & Chauvin, T. (1996). Functional analysis of severe tantrums displayed by children with language delays: An outclinic assessment. Behavior Modification, 20, 97–115.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Vollmer, T. R., & Smith, R. G. (1996). Some current themes in functional analysis research. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 17, 229–249.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wacker, D., Berg, W., Derby, K., Asmus, J., & Healey, A. (1998). Evaluation and long-term treatment of aberrant behavior displayed by young children with disabilities. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, 19, 260–266.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wallace, M. D., & Iwata, B. A. (1999). Effects of session duration on functional analysis outcomes. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 32, 175–183.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wilder, D. A., Register, M., Register, S., Bajagic, V., & Neidert, P. L. (2009). Functional analysis and treatment of rumination using fixed-time delivery of a flavor spray. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 877–882.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Zarcone, J. R., Rodgers, T. A., Iwata, B. A., Rourke, D., & Dorsey, M. F. (1991). Reliability analysis of the motivational assessment scale: A failure to replicate. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 12, 349–360.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, 4001 Dole Human Development Bldg, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA

    Pamela L. Neidert, Makenzie W. Bayles & Jonathan R. Miller

  2. Department of Behavioral Psychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA

    Griffin W. Rooker

Authors
  1. Pamela L. Neidert
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Griffin W. Rooker
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Makenzie W. Bayles
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. Jonathan R. Miller
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Pamela L. Neidert .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. , Dept. Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, Sunnyside Avenue 1000, Lawrence, 66045, Kansas, USA

    Derek D. Reed

  2. , Dept. Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, Sunnyside Avenue 1000, Lawrence, 66044, Kansas, USA

    Florence D. DiGennaro Reed

  3. May Institute, Pacella Park Drive 41, Randolph, 02368, Massachusetts, USA

    James K. Luiselli

Appendix: Steps in Conducting a Functional Analysis of Problem Behavior

Appendix: Steps in Conducting a Functional Analysis of Problem Behavior

figure 0009a

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Neidert, P.L., Rooker, G.W., Bayles, M.W., Miller, J.R. (2013). Functional Analysis of Problem Behavior. In: Reed, D., DiGennaro Reed, F., Luiselli, J. (eds) Handbook of Crisis Intervention and Developmental Disabilities. Issues in Clinical Child Psychology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6531-7_9

Download citation

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation