A Comparison of Experimental Functional Analysis and the Questions about Behavioral Function (QABF) in the Assessment of Challenging Behavior of Individuals with Autism

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  • Author(s): Healy, Olive; Brett, Denise; Leader, Geraldine
  • Language:
    English
  • Source:
    Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Jan 2013 7(1):66-81.
  • Physical Description:
    PDF
  • Publication Date:
    2013
  • Document Type:
    Journal Articles
    Reports - Evaluative
  • Additional Information
    • Availability:
      Elsevier. 3251 Riverport Lane, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Tel: 800-325-4177; Tel: 314-447-8000; Fax: 314-447-8033; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: http://www.elsevier.com
    • Peer Reviewed:
      Y
    • Source:
      16
    • Subject Terms:
      Self Destructive Behavior; Standardized Tests; Autism; Functional Behavioral Assessment; Reinforcement; Behavior Problems; Comparative Analysis; Aggression; Injuries
    • Accession Number:
      10.1016/j.rasd.2012.05.006
    • ISSN:
      1750-9467
    • Abstract:
      We compared two functional behavioral assessment methods: the Questions About Behavioral Function (QABF; a standardized test) and experimental functional analysis (EFA) to identify behavioral functions of aggressive/destructive behavior, self-injurious behavior and stereotypy in 32 people diagnosed with autism. Both assessments found that self injurious behavior (SIB) was mostly maintained by automatic reinforcement and escape from task demands. Aggressive/destructive behavior was found to be maintained by escape and access to tangibles, whereas stereotypy was mostly maintained by automatic reinforcement. There was exact agreement on function(s) between the two assessments for 24 participants and partial agreement for six participants. Results suggest that the QABF has clinical utility and is an effective tool for ascribing behavioral function. Implications of the present findings for future assessment of behavioral function are discussed. (Contains 4 figures and 7 tables.)
    • Abstract:
      As Provided
    • Publication Date:
      2013
    • Accession Number:
      EJ1006146