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Understand Your Students
Why Behaviors Occur
It`s important to understand why behaviors occur in the classroom. Students may exhibit challenging behaviors for a variety of reasons. By understanding the underlying cause of a behavior, teachers can provide the necessary support to help students succeed.
Identify Function of Behaviors
There are four main reasons for challenging behaviors to occur. Identifying the function of a behavior is the first step in understanding why the behavior is happening. By identifying the reason for the behavior, teachers can provide the necessary support to help the student succeed.
Function
To escape or avoid an undesirable situation. For example, a student may exhibit challenging behaviors to avoid a task or assignment.
To get social attention (positive/negative). For example, a student may exhibit challenging behaviors to get the teacher`s attention.
To get a tangible item or activity. For example, a student may exhibit challenging behaviors to get a toy or snack.
For sensory stimulation. For example, a student may exhibit challenging behaviors to get sensory input.
A-B-C Analysis
A-B-C analysis is a tool used to understand the relationship between antecedents, behaviors, and consequences. By analyzing the A-B-C of a behavior, teachers can identify patterns and develop strategies to address challenging behaviors.
Antecedents
Antecedents are events that occur before a behavior. They can be environmental, situational, or internal. Antecedents can trigger a behavior to occur.
Behaviors
Behaviors are actions that are observable and measurable. They can be positive or negative. Behaviors can be verbal or nonverbal.
Consequences
Consequences are events that occur after a behavior. They can be positive or negative. Consequences can influence the likelihood of a behavior occurring again in the future.
Replacement Behaviors
Replacing the behaviors - behavior plans should be designed to provide students with alternative behaviors that are more appropriate and effective. The goal is to teach students new skills to replace challenging behaviors. Behavior plans should be individualized to meet the unique needs of each student.
Appropriate Requesting
Seeking attention or assistance in a suitable manner.
Effective Communication of Wants or Needs
Expressing desires or requirements clearly and positively to achieve desired outcomes.
Positive Reinforcement
Utilizing rewards or praise to encourage and strengthen desirable behaviors.
Continue Learning
Learn more about the functions of behaviors and how to address challenging behaviors in the classroom.