ABA glossary

Function of behavior

Also called function

The reinforcing consequence that maintains a behavior, that is, why it keeps occurring. Common functions are attention, access to tangibles, escape or avoidance, and automatic reinforcement.

Example from a session

Assessment shows Max's screaming is maintained by escape from tooth brushing.

Can you spot function of behavior in a scenario?

Practice RBT D.1 with exam-style questions and instant feedback.

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RBT D.1 · Behavior ReductionRecognize the common functions of behavior
BCBA B.6 · Concepts and PrinciplesAutomatic vs. socially mediated contingencies
RBT B.3 · Behavior AssessmentSupport functional assessment: descriptive assessment and functional analysis
BCBA F.6 · Behavior AssessmentDesigning and evaluating functional analyses
BCBA B.1 · Concepts and PrinciplesBehavior, response, and response class

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Definition

Example from a session

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Turn definitions into fast, confident answers.

Definition

Example from a session

Study guides that use this term

Related terms

Turn definitions into fast, confident answers.