If someone has suggested a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) for your child, you might be wondering what it actually involves. This guide explains what an FBA is, why it matters, and what to expect.

What Is a Functional Behaviour Assessment?

A Functional Behaviour Assessment is a structured process used by a registered Behaviour Support Practitioner to understand why a behaviour is happening, not just what it looks like. Every behaviour communicates something — an FBA uncovers what that is.

For example, a child who hits out during transitions may be communicating that they feel overwhelmed by change and do not yet have the words or skills to express it differently. The FBA looks for that underlying function.

What Does an FBA Involve?

• Interviews with parents, carers and teachers — gathering information about when the behaviour happens, what triggers it, and what follows
• Direct observation — watching the person in the settings where the behaviour occurs most often
• Review of existing reports — paediatric, psychology, and school documents
• Functional analysis — identifying patterns to determine the most likely function

The Four Functions of Behaviour

1. Access — the person wants an object, activity or sensory experience
2. Escape or avoidance — the person wants to get away from a demand or sensation
3. Attention — the person wants connection or a response from others
4. Automatic/sensory — the behaviour itself produces a feeling the person finds regulating

How Long Does an FBA Take?

A standard FBA takes 4 to 8 weeks from first meeting to completed report. This includes gathering information from multiple sources, completing observations, and analysing the findings.

Is an FBA Funded by NDIS?

Yes. FBAs are funded under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living (CB Daily Activities). Both plan-managed and self-managed participants can access this funding.

Getting Started

At Brave Mental Health, Himani Arora conducts Functional Behaviour Assessments across Melbourne and via telehealth. Book a free 20-minute consultation — no referral needed.