Functional Behavioral Assessment, Functional Analysis and Direct Observation

Catalog description

This course will provide the student with intensive instruction in functional assessment procedures and direct observation methods to be used by the behavior analyst in service delivery mechanisms in mental health and education settings. The following terms will be defined, described, compared, and contrasted: functional assessment, functional analysis, functional behavior assessment, descriptive assessment, and descriptive analysis. Direct observation methods, observer reactivity, and appropriate selection and implementation of time-sampling techniques will be described. Examples of their appropriate and inappropriate use will be analyzed. Assessment procedures to identify generalization and maintenance of behavior change will be identified, described, and analyzed.