Structural Analysis
In this unit, we covered how we can test the hypothesis of the function of behavior using the Functional Analysis. The difference between FBA (Functional Behavior Assessment) and FA (Functional Analysis) is that with FBA we are forming a hypothesis about the functional relationship between antecedent and consequence conditions and behavior. With Functional Analysis, we are confirming or proving that these hypothesized relationships are indeed cause and effect relationships. This is done through systematic manipulation of antecedents and consequences to prove that these are the variables that are responsible for the interfering behavior
Debbie is a ten-year-old student at Pine Valley Elementary school. She was previously diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of two. Debbie has, historically, engaged in self-injurious behavior (SIB), including head banging, which has resulted in significant facial injury. A previous functional behavior assessment was conducted by the BCBA from the school district and it was determined that the function of the SIB appeared to be escape from non-preferred tasks or demands. The teacher was not sure that the results were accurate, as she felt that Debbie was usually compliant with most requests. You are taking over this case and have determined that a structural and consequence analysis should be completed to test the hypothesis that difficult tasks are the antecedent to SIB.
According to the examples in the text, how would you conduct a structural analysis for this scenario? Be sure to discuss specific antecedent conditions that could be presented and how you would collect data.
According to the examples in the text, how would you conduct a consequence analysis for this scenario? Be sure to discuss specific consequence conditions that could be presented and how you would collect data.
Unit 7 Discussion: Screening and Assessment
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Unit 7 Discussion: Screening and Assessment
To perform a structural analysis of this situation, we would experiment with the antecedent conditions to see how they influence Debbie's behavior. We might give her specific requests or directions, ask her to participate in certain activities, have a specific person or product available, etc. The aim is to pinpoint the circumstances most likely culminating in the self-injurious behavior (SIB) ("Experiment with the antecedent," 2022).
Giving Debbie a variety of tasks that range in difficulty might be one method to begin the structural examination. As an illustration, we could begin with a straightforward assignment, like painting a picture, then progressively raise the bar by having them complete a mathematical problem that requires several steps. Then, as we watched Debbie perform each job, we would note whether or not she displayed SIB. We could also gath...