Which term is a systematic process for identifying and analyzing the purposes (functions) a problem behavior serves?

• A. FBA
• B. FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS
• C. GENERAL CASE ANALYSIS
• D. GROUP CONTINGENCY

Answer: (A)

A functional behavioral assessment is the systematic process used to identify and analyze the purposes (functions) a problem behavior serves. It brings together data from multiple sources, observations of how the environment and consequences maintain the behavior, and a planned analysis to determine what outcome the behavior is serving for the individual. The full FBA may include indirect assessments, direct observation of behavior and environment, and often a functional analysis, which tests hypotheses under controlled conditions to confirm the function. This comprehensive approach is what makes it the best fit for understanding why a behavior occurs and how to intervene.

Other terms refer to different concepts. General Case Analysis focuses on applying procedures across multiple cases to ensure generalizability, not on uncovering the function of a specific behavior. Group Contingency is a classroom management strategy that uses group-based reinforcement to influence behavior, not a process for identifying the function of a problem behavior.