THE IMPACT OF FUNCTIONAL-ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY ON OUTPATIENT-CLINIC SERVICES

The impact of the article by Iwata, Dorsey, Slifer, Bauman, and Richma n (1982) on research in severe behavior disorders has been impressive. Equally impressive, however, but not as fully recognized, has been th e impact of this methodology on the routine professional activities of those who employ functional analysis methods in their daily work. As one example of this impact, we describe the evolution of assessment pr ocedures based on ''brief functional analysis'' methodology in our out patient clinics. Less apparent have been the collateral effects that o ccur from using these procedures. Interactions with clients and collea gues have changed in ways that result in increased positive reinforcem ent. In this article, we briefly discuss the positive impact functiona l analysis has had on one specific work behavior-outpatient clinic ass essment-and describe some of the generalized effects we have experienc ed in related aspects of our daily professional activities.