Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What is the primary goal of a functional assessment?

1. Identify effective reinforcements

2. Recognize patterns of behavior

3. Determine behavior functions

4. Develop intervention strategies

The correct answer is: Determine behavior functions

The primary goal of a functional assessment is to determine behavior functions. Functional assessments aim to identify the underlying reasons or functions behind a behavior, which can include factors such as gaining attention, escaping a situation, or obtaining a tangible item. Understanding the function of a behavior is crucial because it informs the development of effective interventions that directly address the motivations for the behavior. By identifying these functions, practitioners can tailor their approach to change behavior in a way that is meaningful and effective for the individual. Options that focus on identifying effective reinforcements, recognizing patterns of behavior, or developing intervention strategies are indeed important components of the behavior analytic process but serve as supportive steps rather than the primary objective. These steps are often guided by the understanding of the function of the behavior, thus making it a foundational aspect of the assessment process.