Further Evaluation Of The Trial-Based Functional Analysis

Prior studies suggest that trial-based functional analysis (TBFA) can be used to identify the function of problem behaviors for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To date, there have been 20 published studies using TBFA and documenting adequate reliability and validity. Procedures have varied somewhat across studies with regard to the order of segments in the TBFA and the duration of segments. The purpose of this study was to (a) examine patterns of responding in pre- and post-control segments to determine if either or both are necessary and (b) examine within-session patterns of responding to assess relative effects of 1 min versus 2 min segments. This study is distinguished from prior studies in that primary caregivers implemented the TBFA in the homes of the children or community centers. Three children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder participated in this study. The results of this study tentatively suggest that carryover effects are present in post-control segments, thus TBFAs should only include a pre-control segment. Additionally, the results of this study suggest that identical functions of problem behavior can be identified when segments last for 1 min and 2 min, thus segment duration should last up to 1 min.