Checklist: What things should I look for in an FBA?
Checklist: What things should I look for in an FBA?Things to look for in an FBA
- Does it define a specific behavior that is observable and measurable
- Can you picture it in your mind?
- Would a stranger imagine the same behavior if they read the description?
- If it says something general like “disruptive behavior” – ask for a more concrete, specific definition. (see examples below)
- Does it explain how often, when and where that behavior occurs?
- Is there recent data showing how often it has been happening?
- Does the information describe how often and when the behavior is occurring in your child’s current placement or setting? (if the placement has changed since the FBA was completed, a new look may be needed).
- Does it consider environmental factors?
- Does it consider how the dynamics of the classroom, hallways, lunchroom, gym or recess might influence the behavior?
- Does it consider how instruction – both what is taught and how it is taught – might influence the behavior?
- Does it consider how interaction with peers or adults might influence the behavior?
- Does it reflect information you have been able to share regarding your child’s behavior, including:
- Whether/when/how often the behaviors that occur in the classroom or at school also happen in other settings;
- What you have observed regarding what seems to trigger inappropriate behaviors; and
- What you have found seems to be successful in calming, redirecting or motivating your child.
- Does it take into account information about your child’s mental health? Or experience with trauma, if that is relevant?
- Does it include a suggestion about the purpose of the behavior that makes sense in light of the data?
| Examples: General | Examples: Concrete, Specific |
|---|---|
| Aggressive behavior | Hitting, biting, kicking, pinching (self, adults, or other students), etc. |
| Self-injurious behavior | Hitting head, biting fingers, scratching, etc. |
| Disruptive behavior | Blurting out in class, making noises, slamming door, etc. |
| Time off task | Sleeping, walking around classroom, throwing or dropping papers, pencils, etc. |