Intervention for Aggressive-Destructive Behavior

A successful intervention for aggressive-destructive behavior starts with a clear understanding of why the behavior occurs. Behavior analysts use functional behavior assessments, including functional analysis, to determine the conditions under which responding occurs and does not occur. Assessment results are then used to inform the development of a function-based treatment. This chapter provides an overview of the key elements for conducting a valid functional analysis and walks the reader through the process of using those results to build an effective treatment plan for aggressive-destructive behavior, including a discussion of the conceptual underpinnings of different approaches to treatment. Modifications to improve the practicality of the treatment plan are also discussed, as are more advanced topics, including whether and how to incorporate the use of supplemental procedures into the treatment plan. The chapter ends with a brief discussion of treatment relapse and methods to mitigate its occurrence.