Functional-assessment-based behavior support planning: Research to practice to research

Research in applied behavior analysis has shaped an important technology, c alled functional assessment, for understanding the relationship between pro blem behavior and environmental events and factors. From this understanding , effective and relevant behavioral interventions have emerged. However, gi ven the dramatic increase in the need to conduct functional assessments, ef forts must focus on translating what we have learned from this research int o formats and processes that can be used efficiently in applied settings. I n addition, research must continue to build a technology of functional asse ssment that meets the full range of situations faced in our schools, homes, and communities.