Behavior Breakdown: How to Respond to Challenging Behavior

The Spark Learning Blog • Posted by Alix Naginski, MSc, RBT on March 10, 2026

Unlocking the “Why” Behind Every Behavior

Ever wonder why kids do what they do? From yelling about wanting access to a toy to crying instead of asking for help, every behavior has a reason behind it, and that reason is called a function. Understanding the function of behavior helps us figure out why a behavior is happening, so we can respond in a way that actually works. In this post, we’ll break down the four main functions of behavior in the field of ABA, why they matter, and how knowing them can make everyday life smoother for both kids and adults.

Where do we begin?

ABA therapy treatment begins with a BCBA spending time observing a child in a variety of settings, to understand what is happening immediately before a behavior occurs (antecedent), what the child’s behavior actually looks like, and what happens after the behavior (consequence). By completing a series of observations, the BCBA is compiling data to determine the “why.” Is a behavior happening because the child wants something, wants to escape from something, doesn’t have the words to express their needs, or something else entirely? Is there a pattern between settings, people, or materials?  Does the behavior happen again more often depending on the provided consequence? The answers to these questions, and more, give the BCBA the insight needed to recommend how the family and team can respond effectively in the moment.

What are the four functions of behavior?

Once patterns start to emerge from observations and data, behaviors can typically be grouped into four main categories based on what the child is trying to gain or avoid. These categories help BCBAs and families better understand the purpose the behavior is serving for the child.

It’s important to remember that behavior is communication. Even when a child doesn’t yet have the skills to express what they want or need, their behavior is still sending a message.

Most behaviors fall into one of four main categories:

Escape – “I don’t want to do this” The child is trying to get away from a task, demand, or situation they don’t like.

• • Running from the table when homework is presented
  • Leaving the bathroom when it’s time to brush teeth

Attention – “I want your attention” The child engages in a behavior to make sure someone notices them or responds to them.

• • Throwing items while you’re talking to someone else
  • Crying when you walk out of the room

Tangible – “I want this” The behavior happens because the child wants something, such as an item, activity, or object.

• • Dropping to the floor to get candy at the store
  • Crying when the TV is turned off

Sensory – “This feels good” The child is doing the behavior simply because it feels good to them or provides a desired sensory input.

• • Hand flapping or spinning
  • Chewing on items
  • Making repeated sounds

A single behavior can have multiple functions at once. For example, a child eloping from a room as he is looking at you and screaming your name could be classified as attention or escape, depending on the specific scenario. 

Why does the function really matter?

When we understand the function of a behavior, it changes how we respond. Instead of seeing behavior as something a child is doing to be difficult, we begin to see that the child is finding the situation to be difficult, and their behavior is a form of communication.

If a child is trying to escape a task, they may need help breaking it into smaller steps. If they are seeking attention, they may need more opportunities for positive connection. If they want access to something, they may need support learning how to ask for it. They may also need additional tools, such as visuals or social stories. And if the behavior is sensory-driven, they may need other ways to meet that sensory need.

At the end of the day, behavior always serves a purpose. When we focus on the “why,” we can teach children more effective ways to communicate, reduce frustration, and build skills that help them succeed at home, at school, and in their community.

Chat with your BCBA during your next Parent Training session if you need help identifying the function of a new behavior. If you’re not part of the Spark family yet but would like to set up a complementary consultation with one of our directors to learn more about starting services, give the Spark office a call at (512) 900-1425.

Join the Spark Family

• Little Sparks – Our early intervention preschool and kinder program designed to build foundational skills through play-based ABA therapy.
• Speech Therapy – Helping children develop communication skills with personalized, engaging speech and language support.
• Summer Camp – A fun, inclusive program where kids build social skills and confidence through structured activities and play.
• Social Skills & Group – Small-group ABA sessions that teach children how to engage, communicate, and navigate social situations.
• Parent Training – Equipping parents with effective ABA strategies to support each child’s growth at home and beyond.

At Spark, we believe that ABA therapy should be engaging, natural, and, most importantly… fun! Our goal is to empower children, support families, and build confidence in every child we work with.

Ready to learn more? Reach out today!