Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

Which type of assessment is mainly focused on understanding the 'why' of behavior?

1. Functional assessment

2. Statistical assessment

3. Standardized assessment

4. Qualitative assessment

The correct answer is: Functional assessment

The answer focuses on functional assessment because it specifically seeks to identify the reasons behind a behavior by analyzing the antecedents and consequences that maintain or influence that behavior. This type of assessment is integral in behavior analysis, as it aims to uncover the functions of a behavior—such as whether it occurs to gain attention, escape a situation, access tangibles, or fulfill sensory needs. By understanding the 'why' of behavior, practitioners can implement targeted interventions that address the root causes, leading to more effective behavioral change. In contrast, statistical assessments generally focus on quantifying behavior and may involve analyzing trends and patterns without delving into the motivations or functions behind the behaviors. Standardized assessments are designed to compare an individual's performance against a normative sample and typically do not explore the underlying reasons for specific behaviors. Qualitative assessments, while they might provide insights into behavior through descriptive methods, are not specifically structured to identify the functional aspects of behaviors in the same way a functional assessment does.