Functional analysis is a scientific approach that involves resting how specific changes impact the occurrence of problem behavior-descriptive assessment and functional analysis. For instance, meatballs can find out a lot about what people think, write, or do when preparing meatballs. However, these dynamics do not represent what one will find through direct tasting. Researchers have it that the only way to know what causes behavior is through functional analysis (Cipani & Schock, 2011).
Descriptive Assessment
On the other hand, descriptive assessment is a means through which variables that affect people’s interactions can be quantitatively described. These variables are said to be responsible for people’s behaviors. Therefore, this paper shall compare the descriptive assessment and the functional analysis providing insight into whether the experimental functional analysis can be applied to maladaptive behavior.
Functional Analysis-descriptive assessment and functional analysis
The functional analysis points out the reasons behind the behavior. Once the reason behind the behavior is established through the functional analysis, it then becomes easy for the behavior to be changed. The study presents us with the knowledge of what to change to minimize a possible reoccurrence and encourage them to achieve the desired behavior (Cooper et al., 2014).
Likewise, descriptive assessment details an individual’s behavior concerning his social environment. With those details in place, analysis can be conducted to test presumed relations and the possible interventions. This can be put in place to minimize problem behaviors, support desirable behavior, and progress the general effectiveness of interactions.
To be precise, the descriptive assessment helps determine why the behavior occurs rather than how often an action occurs. The questions why and how usually a behavior occurs are both crucial to ask and to answer. Still, for the reasons for understanding under which circumstances the behavior occurs, descriptive data is an excellent approach (Cooper et al., 2014).
As in the case of the assessment of severe behavior, experimental functional analysis is the behavioral assessment process that involves the manipulation of variables hypothesized to maintain problematic behavior. On the other hand, maladaptive behavior is those that individuals apply to avoid confrontation with the discomfort of new situations or environments (Cipani & Schock, 2011).
For example, some people use drugs and alcohol to make them avoid facing the reality of their problems. Unfortunately, this avoidance never solves the problem. It makes one forget the unrealistic fears and reduce the anxiety, but never solves the actual situation. Therefore, I believe that experimental functional analysis should be used for maladaptive behavior. This is because it helps researchers and professionals identify the underlying active behavior.
Conclusion-difference between a descriptive assessment and functional analysis
Functional analysis and descriptive assessment are crucial approaches to understanding one’s behaviors in relation to their social environment. The information and the data collected are then used for various health reasons such as treatment of mental and behavioral disorders, knowing what a person is best at, and understanding the environment that an individual is likely to thrive in.
References
Cipani, E., & Schock, K. M. (2011). Functional behavioral assessment, diagnosis, and treatment: A complete system for education and mental health settings. Springer Publishing Company.
Cooper, J., Heron, T., & Heward, W. (2014). Applied Behavior Analysis. England: Pearson Education Ltd.