Understanding Behavior Functions in ABA
Learn how behavior functions in ABA explain tantrums and how to respond effectively to support your child’s communication and development.
You ask your child to turn off their tablet, and within seconds they begin crying, yelling, or refusing to move. Moments like these can feel overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes even frustrating for families.
Many parents naturally label these moments as “tantrums.” While that label may describe what the behavior looks like, it does not explain why it is happening.
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), we take a different approach. Instead of focusing only on the behavior itself, we focus on understanding behavior functions in ABA, the reason behind the behavior.
When we understand the function, we can respond in a way that teaches meaningful, long-term skills rather than unintentionally reinforcing challenging behaviors.
What Are Behavior Functions in ABA?
In ABA, every behavior serves a purpose. This is known as the function of behavior. Most behaviors fall into one of four categories:
Attention: The child is seeking interaction from others. Examples include crying until a parent responds or interrupting conversations.
Escape: The child is trying to avoid or get out of a task or demand. Examples include refusing homework or leaving an activity.
Access to Tangibles: The child wants a specific item or activity. Examples include crying for a toy or protesting when a preferred item is removed.
Sensory (Automatic Reinforcement): The behavior itself feels good or is internally reinforcing. Examples include repetitive movements or sounds.
What may look like a tantrum is often a child attempting to meet one of these needs.
Why Understanding Behavior Functions in ABA Matters
When behavior is misunderstood, responses can unintentionally strengthen it.
For example, if a child cries and is given more time on their tablet, they may learn that crying is an effective way to get what they want. Over time, this behavior may increase in frequency or intensity.
Understanding behavior functions in ABA allows caregivers to:
• Respond more effectively
• Teach appropriate communication
• Reduce frustration for both the child and family
Function-based interventions are widely supported by research and best practices in behavior analysis, including guidance from the Association for Behavior Analysis International and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tantrums vs. Communication: A Shift in Perspective
It is important to shift from asking, “How do I stop this behavior?” to asking, “What is my child trying to communicate?”
This shift allows caregivers to:
• Stay calm during challenging moments
• Respond intentionally rather than reactively
• Focus on long-term skill development
Practical Strategies You Can Use at Home
Give Transition Warnings: Children often struggle with sudden changes. Provide advance notice such as “5 more minutes.”
Offer Choices: Providing choices can reduce resistance and increase cooperation.
Reinforce Positive Behavior Immediately: Recognize and praise appropriate behavior as soon as it occurs.
Teach Replacement Communication: Help your child learn how to appropriately ask for what they need.
Stay Consistent: Consistency across caregivers is essential for learning.
The Role of Data and Consistency
ABA is a data-driven approach. At Kids First, your clinical team:
• Tracks behavior patterns
• Monitors progress
• Adjusts interventions based on outcomes
Consistency across parents, therapists, and other environments ensures that strategies are effective and meaningful.
When to Seek Support
If your child is experiencing:
• Frequent tantrums
• Difficulty with transitions
• Challenges with communication
• Increased frustration at home
Additional support may be beneficial.
What ABA Does at Kids First
At Kids First, ABA therapy focuses on more than reducing behaviors. The goal is to teach children what to do instead.
This includes:
• Identifying the function of behavior through assessment
• Teaching functional communication skills
• Reinforcing appropriate behaviors
• Supporting independence over time
Learn more about our services:
https://www.kidsfirstservices.com
We’re Here to Help
At Kids First, we partner with families to understand behavior, build skills, and support long-term success.
Apply here for services:
https://www.kidsfirstservices.com
Final Thought
What looks like a tantrum is often a child’s attempt to communicate a need.
When we understand behavior functions in ABA, we move from reacting to behavior to supporting the child in a meaningful and lasting way.
