What are the four main functions of behavior in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

The four main functions of behavior in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) are primarily focused on understanding the reasons behind a person's behavior. The correct answer highlights attention, access to tangibles, escape, and self-stimulation, which represent the key motivations for behavior in this field.

Attention refers to behaviors that are performed to gain social interaction or attention from others. This function is vital for understanding why a child might engage in certain behaviors that are directed towards getting noticed by caregivers or peers.

Access to tangibles involves behaviors performed to gain access to items or activities that the individual desires. This is particularly relevant when analyzing behaviors related to wanting toys, food, or other preferred activities, helping practitioners identify how to adjust their approaches to support the individual better.

Escape is concerned with behaviors that are used to avoid or escape from undesired situations or demands. Understanding this function helps practitioners implement strategies that can reduce instances of problematic behaviors by modifying the environment or tasks that the individual finds overwhelming.

Self-stimulation (or sensory stimulation) reflects behaviors that occur due to the sensory feedback they provide, which might be soothing or exciting for the individual. Recognizing this function is crucial for developing interventions that accommodate the sensory needs of the individual while promoting more adaptive behaviors.

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