Functional behavioral assessments and intervention plans in early intervention settings

This article advocates the use of functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) and behavioral intervention plans (BIPs) in the development of individualiz ed family service plans for children with or at risk of developing behavior al disorders. The article reviews literature supporting early intervention and family collaboration. It describes the FBA and BIP processes and propos es a parent collaborative model for behavior assessment and plan implementa tion. The article also analyzes legal mandates and posits that collaboratio n with parents in the planning and implementation of FBAs and BIPs can yiel d positive outcomes for participating children, parents, and early interven tion staff.