Hypothesized Function(s)

A Hypothesized Function describes the reason the Target Behavior is likely occurring based on information gathered throughout the Functional Behavior Assessment. Review the identified antecedents, behavior patterns, consequences, observations, interviews, and assessment results to determine the function or functions the Target Behavior appears to serve.

Select one or more functions from the inventory within each applicable category. Use Hypothesized Function Details to summarize the evidence supporting each function and develop a concise hypothesis statement describing why the behavior occurs.

Hypothesized Function categories include:

• Attention Functions – The student engages in the Target Behavior to obtain attention, interaction, or emotional reactions from adults, peers, or both.
• Escape or Avoidance Functions – The student engages in the Target Behavior to avoid, delay, escape, or reduce non-preferred tasks, activities, situations, or interactions.
• Access Functions – The student engages in the Target Behavior to obtain preferred items, activities, privileges, or other desired outcomes.
• Automatic Functions – The student engages in the Target Behavior to obtain or reduce internal sensory or physiological stimulation.

Behavior Advantage Recommendation: Many Target Behaviors serve more than one function. When multiple functions are identified, prioritize the function(s) that appear most consistent across assessment data and are most likely to guide effective intervention planning.

Hypothesized Function Details

Each function category includes a Hypothesized Function Details field for documenting the evidence supporting the selected function(s) and summarizing the team's hypothesis.

Examples include:

• Attention: During unstructured social times, Ryan frequently makes inappropriate comments to obtain emotional reactions and attention from peers.
• Escape or Avoidance: During writing assignments, Caesar refuses teacher directions to delay or avoid completing written work.
• Access: During computer lab, Seth refuses to log off the computer to continue accessing a preferred activity.
• Automatic: During unstructured times, Sam repeatedly turns classroom lights on and off to obtain sensory stimulation.

A strong hypothesis statement clearly describes the relationship between the Antecedents, Target Behavior, and Consequences, explaining why the behavior is likely occurring.

Custom Functions

If a hypothesized function is not available within the inventory, click Add Custom Function to create your own. Enter the custom function, select the appropriate category, and click Create. Custom functions can be selected and edited just like inventory items.

Note: Any function categories left blank will not appear in the FBA Report.