Understanding the Four Functions of Behavior in ABA

Have you ever wondered why your child repeats certain behaviors — even the challenging ones? In ABA therapy, we don’t just look at the behavior itself. We look at what drives it. Every behavior serves a function, and understanding that function is key to making meaningful change.

The Four Functions of Behavior

In ABA, we categorize behavior into four primary functions:

1. Attention – The child engages in a behavior to gain attention from others.
2. Escape – The behavior helps the child avoid or escape an unwanted task or situation.
3. Access to Tangibles – The behavior allows the child to get something they want (a toy, food, etc.).
4. Sensory (Automatic) – The behavior provides internal satisfaction or sensory stimulation.

Let’s break these down with real-world examples.

1. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Imagine your child screams whenever you're on the phone. Why? It might be because the scream leads you to stop talking and focus on them. Even if you respond with “Stop that!” — that’s still attention, and the behavior might continue.

Strategy: Teach your child to gain your attention appropriately. Reinforce them when they tap you on the shoulder or say “excuse me.”

2. Escape-Driven Behavior

Your child is asked to do homework and suddenly throws their pencil across the room. If the task is removed or delayed as a result, the behavior has served its purpose — escape.

Strategy: Try using a first-then visual (“First homework, then play”) or breaking the task into smaller chunks to reduce avoidance.

3. Tangible-Motivated Behavior

Some children may cry or hit to get access to a favorite toy or treat. If this method works even once, it may be repeated.

Strategy: Teach them to request items appropriately, like using words, signs, or visuals. Only provide the item when the correct behavior is shown.

4. Sensory-Driven Behavior

This includes actions like hand-flapping, spinning, or humming. These behaviors often serve a sensory purpose and aren’t meant to communicate anything to others.

Strategy: If the behavior isn’t harmful, you might allow it. But if it’s disruptive or unsafe, consider offering a sensory-friendly alternative, like a fidget tool or sensory break.

How Do You Know the Function?

Figuring out the function involves careful observation. Track when the behavior happens, what came before, and what followed. Your ABA team can conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to get a clearer picture and design a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) accordingly.

Why This Matters for Parents

Knowing why a behavior happens gives you power. Instead of reacting in frustration, you can respond with purpose. Instead of punishing a tantrum, you can teach a new skill. This mindset shift not only helps your child — it strengthens your relationship with them.

Final Thoughts

Behavior is communication. When we understand the reasons behind actions, we become better listeners, better teachers, and better parents. The four functions of behavior don’t just help therapists — they’re a powerful tool for any caregiver trying to guide a child with love and clarity.