Functional analysis of problem behavior occurring during transitions from activity to activity

Document Type

Thesis

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Psychology

Degree

M.S. Applied Behavior Analysis

Date Completed

2015

First Committee Member

Ahearn, William H.

Second Committee Member

Hanley, Gregory

Third Committee Member

Roscoe, Eileen

Abstract

"Transitions have been noted to present challenges for children and adults with autism and related disabilities (Davis, 1987). The present study assessed problem behavior during transitions from activity to activity using a functional analysis. Three students, aged 13-21, two diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and one diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who were reported by their teachers to engage in problem behavior during transitions participated. We conducted questionnaires, direct observations, and a preference assessment to identify activities of varied preferences. We then conducted a functional analysis of problem behavior occurring during transitions between the identified activities. Transitions were arranged from either a preferred, neutral, or nonpreferred activity to either a preferred, neutral, or nonpreferred activity and problem behavior during the activity and transition between activities was measured. Problem behavior was maintained by negative reinforcement in the form of escape from the nonpreferred activity for all three participants and also by positive reinforcement in the form of access to the preferred activity for two participants."

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