Imagine a bustling playground on a sunny afternoon. Children are laughing, running, and exploring, each absorbed in their own world of play. Suddenly, one child begins to scream and throw sand. As a bystander, you might wonder, “Why is this happening?” You might feel a pang of frustration or concern as a parent or caregiver. Understanding the functions of behavior can help us make sense of such situations. These four primary functions 鈥 Attention, Escape, Access, and Sensory needs 鈥 serve as a roadmap to decipher why behaviors occur. They help us categorize actions and guide our responses, especially when dealing with neurodivergent children. In this blog post, we’ll delve into each function, offering insights and strategies to help you navigate the often puzzling world of child behavior. Whether you’re seeking to manage tantrums, improve communication, or better understand your child, this exploration of the functions of behavior promises to be a valuable resource.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Functions of Behavior
As a licensed practitioner who works with kids, I’ve seen firsthand how understanding the functions of behavior can be a game-changer. You see, behavior is a form of communication. When words fail, actions take over. This is especially true for neurodivergent kids. Their behaviors, though sometimes puzzling, are their way of expressing needs or wants. By understanding the functions of behavior, we can better respond to these needs and wants.
Common Functions of Behavior
Let’s explore some common functions of behavior. Remember, these are not just labels but insights into why a behavior occurs. They help us understand what a child is trying to communicate.
1. Sensory Stimulation
Think of a child constantly hums or loves spinning in circles. These behaviors provide a pleasing internal sensation or remove an unpleasing one. For instance, a child might scratch their skin to relieve an itch. This is sensory stimulation at work.
Read more: Tips for Parenting a Child With High Functioning Autism
2. Escape/Avoidance
Ever noticed how some kids become unusually disruptive when it’s time for homework? That’s escape/avoidance. This function involves behaviors that help kids escape or avoid situations, tasks, or demands that are challenging, uncomfortable, or anxiety-inducing.
3. Tangibles
Ever wondered why your child is so attached to that unusual object? That’s the tangibles function. This involves behaviors that help kids get access to an item or activity. It’s not uncommon for kids with autism to develop attachments to specific objects.
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4. Control/Rigidity
Control/rigidity is another common function of behavior. This is often seen in kids who insist on doing things in a specific way or become upset when routines are disrupted. For instance, a child might insist on wearing the same shirt daily or become upset if their favorite TV show is not on at the usual time.
Applying Understanding to Real-Life Situations
Now that we’ve covered the functions of behavior let’s talk about how you can apply this understanding in real-life situations. When your child exhibits a challenging behavior, instead of reacting, try to identify the function of the behavior. Ask yourself, “What is my child trying to communicate?” This approach can lead to more effective strategies for managing behavior and promoting positive interactions.
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Understanding the functions of behavior is like having a secret decoder ring for your child’s actions. It can help you make sense of behaviors that might otherwise seem puzzling or frustrating. More importantly, it can guide your responses in a way that meets your child’s needs and promotes positive behavior change. Remember, behavior is communication. By understanding what your child is trying to communicate, you can respond in a way that supports their growth and development.
FAQ’s About Functions of Behavior
What are the four main functions of behavior? The four main functions of behavior are Attention, Escape, Access, and Sensory needs. What is the function of behavior known as Sensory Stimulation? Sensory Stimulation is a behavior that provides a pleasing internal sensation or removes an unpleasing one. What does the Escape/Avoidance function of behavior mean? Escape/Avoidance involves behaviors that help people escape or avoid situations, tasks, or demands. What is the Tangibles function of behavior? Tangibles involves behaviors that help people get access to an item or activity. How can understanding the functions of behavior help parents? Understanding the functions of behavior can help parents respond effectively to their child's needs and promote positive behavior change.
Emily Parker
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
