Antecedents and outcomes

In order to determine the most effective method for modifying behavior, it is important to first understand why the individual is performing that behavior. A behavior may serve different purposes. For instance, one child may throw a tantrum in order to gain attention from those nearby, while another child might throw a tantrum to be sent away and avoid interacting with those same people. Accurately determining the motivation behind a behavior (Its function) is critical in developing effective interventions.

Part of determining the motivation behind a behavior requires the analysis of both what precedes the behavior, and what follows. Identifying these antecedents and outcomes is a critical step in accurately assessing the functions of a behavior and determining effective interventions.

For this Assignment, you will delve further into functional assessment by identifying antecedents and outcomes of a particular behavior in your life.

To Prepare
  • Select a behavior in your life.
  • Identify antecedents to that behavior and outcomes of engaging in that behavior.
  • Describe the behavior you chose from your personal life experience.
  • Explain the antecedents of the behavior your chose.
  • Explain the antecedents and consequences (outcomes) of the behavior you chose.

Support your Assignment by citing all resources in APA style, including those in the Learning Resources.

Requirements: Two papers

Answer preview

Functional behavioral assessments provide valuable mechanisms for evaluating behaviors that individuals exhibit and the contributing factors (Scott, Bucalos, Liaupsin, Nelson, Jolivette, & DeShea, 2004). They provide a guideline for asking all the right questions to dissect a behavior and patterns that impact its manifestations in various situations. I have used the FBA approach to assess my behavioral inclinations whenever I am around people and determine the underlying issues. This seeming inability to interact with others has earned me the title of an anti-social person. As I grew up, I have taken the time to undertake an in-depth introspection

[730 Words]

Scroll to Top