The Four Functions of Behavior in ABA Therapy

As parents, it can feel confusing when your child suddenly exhibits a behavior that seems out of the ordinary. The truth is, every action, whether helpful or challenging, has a purpose. In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), these purposes are called the four functions of behavior. Understanding these functions gives families and therapists a roadmap to encourage positive skills and reduce behaviors that may interfere with learning or safety.

Continue reading to learn more about the four functions of behavior in ABA therapy below.

What are the functions of behavior in ABA?

In ABA, all behaviors serve a purpose. They are ways of communicating a need, desire, or feeling. The four functions of behavior, attention, escape, tangible, and automatic, help therapists identify why children engage in behavior. Once we understand the reason for a certain behavior, we can teach children more positive and effective ways to meet their needs.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, autism spectrum disorder affects how children interact, communicate, and learn. These differences can help explain why certain behaviors occur in children with autism and why understanding the functions of behavior is such a valuable part of ABA therapy.

 Why do children engage in behavior?

Children may not always have the words or skills to explain what they want. Instead, their behaviors serve as a form of communication.

A tantrum, for example, might be a child’s way of saying, “I need a break,” while laughter during circle time may signal, “I like it when you pay attention to me.” Recognizing these reasons helps families respond with compassion and practical strategies.

Understanding the reasons for your child’s behavior

Every behavior has a purpose, even when it feels confusing at the moment. In ABA, we look at four main reasons, called functions, that explain why children act the way they do. Here, we break them down in further detail.

1. Attention

Children sometimes act out or engage in behaviors because they want social attention, whether positive or negative.                    

How to know if the behavior is attention-seeking

You may notice patterns that show your child is seeking a reaction from you or others.

Some common signs include:

• The behavior happens more often when a parent, teacher, or peer is nearby.
• Your child looks to see your reaction after the behavior.

Examples of attention-seeking behavior

Attention-seeking can look different from child to child, but here are some familiar examples parents often notice:

• Saying “Watch me!” while doing a new skill.
• Throwing toys so that an adult picks them up.
• Interrupting conversations by shouting.
• Hugging or climbing on others unexpectedly.
• Making silly faces or noises to get peers laughing.

2. Escape

Escape behaviors occur when children attempt to avoid or delay situations that feel difficult, boring, or overwhelming.

How to know if the behavior is escape-maintained

Look for situations where your child uses behavior to postpone or avoid a task.

Common indicators include:

• The behavior occurs right after a demand is placed.
• The child avoids or postpones the task after the behavior.

Examples of escape-maintained behavior

Children may try different strategies, some subtle, some disruptive, to get out of non-preferred activities:

• Saying “I need the bathroom” when homework starts.
• Hiding under a desk during challenging schoolwork.
• Crying when told it’s time to clean up toys.
• Walking away when asked to try a new food.
• Throwing materials on the floor to delay a lesson.

3. Tangible

Children may engage in certain behaviors to get something they want, such as an object, snack, or favorite activity.                       

How to know if the behavior is tangible-maintained

Pay attention to whether the behavior only happens when your child doesn’t have access to something they want.

Signs include:

• The behavior happens when access to an item or activity is denied.
• The child gains the desired object or activity after the behavior.

Examples of tangible behavior

Parents often see these behaviors when kids are highly motivated by toys, food, or screen time:

• Crying when a tablet is taken away.
• Saying “My turn, please!” during a game.
• Grabbing snacks from the counter without asking.
• Pushing in line to get to the playground faster.
• Negotiating chores in exchange for extra screen time.

4. Automatic

Some behaviors serve no external purpose. These behaviors are repeated because they feel good or provide internal stimulation.

How to know if the behavior is automatic

If the behavior happens across all situations, regardless of people or activities, it may be automatic.

Signs include:

• The behavior occurs across all environments, regardless of people or demands.
• The child engages in the behavior whether or not attention or objects are involved.

Examples of automatic behavior

Automatic behaviors are often self-soothing or sensory-driven, such as:

• Rocking back and forth to self-soothe.
• Humming while focusing on a puzzle.
• Cracking knuckles repeatedly.
• Tapping fingers or bouncing feet during quiet time.
• Chewing on clothing or objects for sensory input.

Can you have more than one reason for a behavior?

Yes. The same behavior can serve more than one function depending on the situation. For example, a child might cry to get a parent’s attention while also trying to avoid cleaning up toys. ABA therapists carefully assess these patterns to understand which functions are at play.

Knowing that behaviors can have multiple reasons ensures families don’t jump to conclusions and instead respond with strategies that truly match their child’s needs.

Examples for each function of behavior

Sometimes it helps to see how one behavior can look different depending on its function.

Take nose-picking, for example:

• Attention: A child picks their nose in front of classmates who laugh and encourage them to repeat it.
• Escape: At the dinner table, nose-picking gets the child sent to the sink, delaying the Brussels sprouts.
• Tangible: A sibling leaves the play area in disgust, leaving all the blocks behind for the child.
• Automatic: The child engages in nose-picking regardless of the setting because it provides internal stimulation.

Looking at behaviors this way helps parents see that context matters. A single action may have different meanings depending on when, where, and why it occurs.

How ABA therapy uses the functions of behavior

ABA therapy is built on the idea that understanding why a behavior happens is the first step toward change. By identifying the function, therapists can replace challenging behaviors with healthier, more effective skills.

Identifying the function of a behavior

ABA professionals use structured assessments, observations, and caregiver interviews to pinpoint the function. Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) are often conducted to gather data about when and why the behavior occurs.

How ABA strategies address challenging behaviors

Once the function is clear, therapists design strategies that meet the same need in a positive way. For instance, instead of screaming for a toy (tangible), a child might be taught to use words, gestures, or picture cards. If a child avoids homework by running away (escape), therapists can teach them to request a break appropriately.

The role of parents in supporting ABA at home

Parents are an essential part of the process. By learning how to recognize the functions of behavior, caregivers can respond consistently, encourage positive alternatives, and reduce frustration at home.

Parent involvement creates a unified approach that helps children thrive across different environments.

Get support from InBloom Autism Services

At InBloom Autism Services, we specialize in ABA for autism with a focus on early intervention for children ages 18 months to 5 years.

Our clinicians work closely with families to identify the functions of behavior, teach new skills, and support each child’s independence.

Learn more about our ABA Behavior Consultation services or contact us today to take the first step.

Together, we’ll help your child bloom.