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Student Motivations

Learn how to identify student preferences, motivators, and reinforcement strategies that support intervention planning and skill development.

Student Strengths & Interests

Begin the FBA by identifying the student's strengths, interests, abilities, and successful supports and experiences. A strength-based perspective helps teams build on what is already working while developing effective, individualized behavior supports.

Consider information gathered from the student, parent/caregiver, teachers, service providers, and direct observations. Include strengths related to learning, communication, relationships, preferred activities, talents, and instructional strategies or environmental supports that have been successful in the past.

Understanding student strengths helps teams identify meaningful motivators, increase engagement, and develop interventions that are both practical and empowering.

Motivation & Reinforcement Inventory

Effective behavior change depends on motivation. Use the Motivation & Reinforcement Inventory to identify items, activities, privileges, and experiences that are meaningful to the student.

Select one or more Categories, then describe student-specific reinforcers and any implementation details.

Examples include:

  • Ability to Avoid Work: Short break, help from a teacher or peer, choice of assignment, fewer problems, alternate workspace.
  • Classroom Activities: Computer time, drawing, classroom jobs, educational games, STEM activities, art projects.
  • Social Activities: Lunch with a preferred staff member or peer, positive phone call home, helping a younger class, extra time with friends.
  • School Privileges: Line leader, office helper, library visit, extra recess, classroom helper, choosing a classroom activity.
  • Tangibles/Items: Stickers, favorite pencils or markers, fidget tools, books, trading cards, small prizes.

Whenever possible, identify reinforcers based on the student's demonstrated interests and preferences rather than what others believe should be motivating.

Tip: Include a variety of reinforcers across multiple categories. Having several meaningful options provides flexibility, promotes student choice, and helps maintain motivation over time.