Written by Beau,
Behavior Analyst, Board Certified and Licensed
A recent experience around an FBA left me with dread. I continue to come to a realization that children in need of behavioral support in school settings are often met with haphazard, lukewarm efforts can leave lasting scars—on their learning, emotional well-being, and relationships.
Functional Behavior Assessments
Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) are powerful tools, but only when they’re approached with care, intention, and expertise.
They aren’t just forms to fill out or boxes to check—they’re individualized roadmaps that guide meaningful, compassionate interventions tailored to a student’s unique needs. When done thoughtfully, these plans can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. 🎤
No Half-Measures
Untrained behavior change efforts can do significant harm to children with behavioral challenges. When interventions are implemented without proper understanding or training, they can inadvertently reinforce problem behaviors, create confusion, or escalate emotional distress. These poorly planned strategies may also damage trust, hinder skill development, and lead to long-term negative effects on a child’s self-esteem and relationships.
#1 Way to Spot an Impactful Clinician to complete your student's FBA
✅ They Ask Follow-Up Questions
A quality professional will plan for the implementation and oversight of the BIP from the beginning.
Serious, intentional Analysts will ask these questions (or like it!) before committing to the case:
Who will be responsible for ensuring the BIP is carried out consistently?
Is the team commitment to training?
How often will regular check-ins occur t to monitor ongoing success of the interventions?
Every child deserves more than guesswork. They deserve a team of adults who are committed to understanding their behavior, addressing it with compassion, and supporting them in a way that leaves a positive, lasting impact. Because when we take FBAs and BIPs seriously, we’re not just solving problems—we’re changing lives.
🚩 Be wary of any FBA writers passing through the night! 🚩
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