Understanding Functional Behavior Assessments in ABA Therapy
A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) helps us understand why a behavior is happening, not just what it looks like. In ABA therapy, FBAs guide us toward meaningful, lasting behavior support instead of guesswork.
As an ABA clinician, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this process can be when families feel stuck.
What is a Functional Behavior Assessment?
A Functional Behavior Assessment, often called an FBA, is a structured way to identify the function of a behavior. In simple terms, we’re asking: What is this behavior trying to communicate?
I once worked with a child who screamed during homework time every evening. On the surface, it looked like refusal. But after completing an FBA, we discovered the behavior helped him escape tasks that felt too difficult.
Once we adjusted expectations and taught him how to ask for help, the behavior faded — without punishment or power struggles.
This is why FBAs matter.
Why behavior happens
Behaviors are not random. They usually serve a clear purpose, especially for children who struggle with communication or emotional regulation.
Through Functional Behavior Assessments, we typically see behaviors fall into a few core categories:
- Seeking attention
- Avoiding or escaping a task or situation
- Gaining access to a preferred item or activity
- Meeting a sensory or regulation need
I’ve seen classrooms completely change once teachers understood why a behavior was happening. When we address the cause, the behavior often improves naturally.
How an FBA works in real life
An FBA is not a single test or observation. It’s a thoughtful process that looks at behavior over time and across environments. This usually includes:
- Direct observations at home or school
- Interviews with parents, caregivers, or teachers
- Data collection on triggers and outcomes
- Pattern analysis to identify the behavior’s function
Because of this depth, an FBA is often part of a broader ABA assessment.
FBAs are also commonly used during an autism evaluation, especially when behavior plays a big role. If you’re unsure where to begin, this resource can help you find a way to autism evaluation.
When an FBA may be helpful
You might consider a Functional Behavior Assessment if:
- Behaviors interfere with learning or daily routines
- Strategies you’ve tried aren’t working
- Behaviors are increasing or becoming more intense
- A school has requested behavior support
In many cases, families feel relief once they realize the behavior isn’t “bad” — it’s communication.
Support that starts with understanding
At Blue Jay ABA, we use Functional Behavior Assessments to guide individualized ABA therapy for families across North Carolina.
Our services include:
We also offer hands-on ABA parent training so families feel confident supporting progress at home.
If you’re in North Carolina and looking for guidance, visit our page on ABA therapy in North Carolina or reach out to us today. We’re here to help — and we’d love to support your next step.
FAQs
What does an FBA tell you that other assessments don’t?
An FBA explains why a behavior happens, which helps guide effective, supportive interventions.
Is an FBA only used in autism?
No. Functional Behavior Assessments are helpful for many individuals, with or without an autism diagnosis.
Does an FBA focus on stopping behavior?
No. It focuses on understanding behavior and teaching more appropriate ways to communicate needs.
Sources:
- https://www.understood.org/en/articles/functional-behavioral-assessment-what-it-is-and-how-it-works
- https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/sped/FBA/
- https://spedsupport.tea.texas.gov/learning-library/evidence-based-practices-students-autism/functional-behavior-assessment-fba
- https://dese.mo.gov/special-education/effective-practices/functional-behavioral-assessment-fba-and-behavioral
- https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module/fba-elem/
- https://behaviour.education.qld.gov.au/supporting-student-behaviour/intensive-support/functional-behaviour-assessment
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