Understanding the Functions of Behaviour

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Explain what is meant by the function of behaviour.

2. Describe the four commonly discussed functions of behaviour: attention, access to tangibles or activities, escape or avoidance, and automatic reinforcement.

3. Recognise that similar behaviours may serve different functions for different individuals or in different contexts.

4. Identify how antecedents and consequences may provide useful information when exploring behavioural function.

5. Distinguish between an observed pattern and a confirmed explanation of why behaviour occurs.

6. Recognise how understanding behavioural function can inform the selection of more appropriate, individualised support.

This session introduces the concept of behavioural function and the development of possible explanations. It does not qualify participants to conduct comprehensive functional assessments or independently determine behavioural function.