What is the process used to analyze antecedents and consequences of behaviors to understand their purpose?

The correct answer is Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). This process is integral in analyzing the antecedents (what happens before a behavior) and the consequences (what happens after) to determine the function or purpose of a behavior. An FBA involves collecting data through various methods, such as direct observation, interviews, and reviewing records, to identify patterns related to the behavior. By understanding these patterns, practitioners can infer why the behavior occurs, which is crucial for developing effective interventions to promote positive behavior change.

The FBA is foundational for tailoring interventions that address the specific needs of an individual by targeting the underlying reasons for a behavior rather than just modifying the behavior itself. The goal is to create a better understanding of the individual’s behaviors in context, leading to more effective behavioral strategies.

The other options, while related to behaviors, do not serve the same function as an FBA. Behavior Modification focuses on changing behaviors rather than analyzing them, a Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) utilizes information from an FBA to create structured methods of intervention, and Behavior Observation involves watching and documenting behaviors but does not specifically analyze the antecedents and consequences in the deep, systematic way an FBA does.