Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

What is the primary purpose of establishing the function of a behavior?

1. To increase the frequency of the behavior

2. To decrease the likelihood of the behavior

3. To inform interventions and support

4. To enhance observational skills

The correct answer is: To inform interventions and support

Establishing the function of a behavior is critical because it allows practitioners to understand the underlying reasons for that behavior. By identifying the function—whether it is to gain attention, escape a situation, access materials, or seek self-stimulation—behavior analysts can tailor interventions that are more effective and relevant to the individual's needs. This process ensures that strategies are not just applied generically but are instead grounded in a specific understanding of what the individual is experiencing and why the behavior occurs. This focus on understanding behavior functions is vital for creating supportive environments, promoting skill acquisition, and reducing challenging behaviors. Interventions that are designed without this understanding may fail to address the root causes, leading to ineffective or even counterproductive outcomes. Thus, the purpose of determining the behavior’s function centrally informs the design and implementation of interventions and support strategies that truly meet the needs of the individual involved.