functional behavioral assessment start to finish checklist
1. Preparation Phase
- Define specific behaviors to address.
- Determine goals for the assessment.
- Consider the context of the behavior.
- Clarify how data will inform interventions.
- Schedule interviews with teachers and parents.
- Prepare questions to guide discussions.
- Collect observations related to the behavior.
- Document insights and perspectives on the student.
- Obtain academic and behavioral records.
- Analyze past assessments and outcomes.
- Identify patterns in behavior over time.
- Note previous interventions and their effectiveness.
- Identify required team members (e.g., psychologist, special educator).
- Schedule a meeting to discuss the case.
- Distribute relevant background information beforehand.
- Ensure team members understand their roles.
- Prepare consent forms detailing the assessment process.
- Communicate the purpose and benefits to guardians.
- Obtain signatures before proceeding.
- Address any questions or concerns from guardians.
2. Defining the Behavior
- Identify behaviors that are problematic or of concern.
- Consider the context in which the behavior occurs.
- Prioritize behaviors based on impact on learning or safety.
- Consult with educators and caregivers for input.
- Avoid subjective terms; describe observable actions.
- Use specific language to detail the behavior.
- Ensure definitions are understandable to all stakeholders.
- Include examples and non-examples for clarity.
- Record how often the behavior occurs within a set time frame.
- Assess the severity or impact of the behavior.
- Measure how long each instance of the behavior lasts.
- Use data collection tools for accurate measurements.
3. Data Collection
4. Analysis of Data
5. Hypothesis Development
- Identify specific behaviors to analyze.
- Consider potential functions such as attention, escape, or sensory input.
- Use collected data to support your hypothesis.
- Document the hypothesis clearly for reference.
- Review data from observations and assessments.
- Cross-check the hypothesis with behavioral patterns.
- Ensure consistency with multiple data sources.
- Revise the hypothesis if data suggests a different function.
- Schedule a meeting with team members.
- Present the hypothesis and supporting data.
- Encourage open discussion and questions.
- Document feedback and consider adjustments to the hypothesis.
6. Intervention Planning
7. Implementation
- Conduct training sessions for all relevant staff.
- Provide clear explanations of the intervention goals.
- Distribute written materials outlining procedures.
- Encourage questions and clarify doubts.
- Arrange follow-up meetings for ongoing support.
- Ensure all staff understand their roles.
- Follow the intervention plan as outlined.
- Maintain consistency in implementation across all environments.
- Document any variations or issues encountered.
- Encourage collaboration among staff for uniformity.
- Schedule regular meetings to discuss progress.
- Use checklists to evaluate adherence to the plan.
- Gather feedback from staff on implementation challenges.
- Adjust the intervention as necessary based on observations.
- Celebrate successes to motivate continued fidelity.
Use in Manifestly