Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
07:31
A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
Comparison of traditional and trial-based methodologies for conducting functional analyses
Robert H LaRue1, Karen Lenard, Mary Jane Weiss
1Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA. larue@rci.rutgers.edu
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|December 1, 2009
Summary
A new trial-based functional analysis is faster and safer than traditional methods. This efficient approach maintains strong correspondence with established functional assessment procedures, making it a viable clinical alternative.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Functional analysis is empirically supported but underused in clinical settings.
- Safety risks and lengthy assessment times hinder traditional functional analysis adoption.
- Maladaptive behavior and its reinforcement are concerns in traditional functional analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a time-efficient, trial-based functional analysis model.
- To compare the trial-based model with traditional functional analysis.
- To assess the safety and efficiency of the trial-based functional analysis.
Main Methods:
- A trial-based functional analysis limiting problem behavior opportunities was used.
- Session durations were reduced to 1-2 minutes.
- Results were compared against traditional functional analyses.
Main Results:
- The trial-based functional analysis showed strong correspondence with traditional methods.
- Exact correspondence was found for 4 out of 5 participants.
- The trial-based method obtained results in 84.8% less time and avoided repeated reinforcement of maladaptive behavior.
Conclusions:
- The trial-based functional analysis is a viable, efficient alternative to traditional methods.
- This model addresses safety and time concerns associated with functional analysis.
- Clinical practitioners can benefit from this streamlined functional assessment procedure.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:14Decision Making: Traditional Method
The process of hypothesis testing based on the traditional method includes calculating the critical value, testing the value of the test statistic using the sample data, and interpreting these values.
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
01:11Functionalism
William James, John Dewey, and Charles Sanders Peirce were instrumental in founding functional psychology, which draws heavily from Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. This theory suggests that individual traits, including behaviors, are adapted to their environments through natural selection. At the heart of functionalism is the concept of adaptation, meaning that a trait enhances an individual's chances of survival and reproduction.
James envisioned psychology's role as...
James envisioned psychology's role as...
01:09Statistical Methods to Analyze Parametric Data: Student t-Test and Goodness-of-Fit Test
In parametric statistics, two fundamental tests stand out for their utility and wide application: the Student's t-test and goodness-of-fit tests. These tests provide researchers with a robust method for drawing insights from data, testing hypotheses, and making informed decisions based on their findings.
The Student's t-test is a statistical test that examines if there is a statistically significant difference between the means of two groups. This test is instrumental when dealing with data...
The Student's t-test is a statistical test that examines if there is a statistically significant difference between the means of two groups. This test is instrumental when dealing with data...
01:12Trial and Error and Algorithm
A problem-solving strategy is a plan of action used to find a solution. Different strategies have distinct action plans. Trial and error involves trying different solutions until one works. For instance, to fix a broken printer, you might check ink levels, ensure the paper tray isn't jammed, and verify the printer's connection to your laptop. This method can be time-consuming but is commonly used. Thomas Edison, for example, used trial and error to find a suitable filament for the light bulb,...
01:21Friedman Two-way Analysis of Variance by Ranks
Friedman's Two-Way Analysis of Variance by Ranks is a nonparametric test designed to identify differences across multiple test attempts when traditional assumptions of normality and equal variances do not apply. Unlike conventional ANOVA, which requires normally distributed data with equal variances, Friedman's test is ideal for ordinal or non-normally distributed data, making it particularly useful for analyzing dependent samples, such as matched subjects over time or repeated measures from...
01:12Statistical Methods to Analyze Parametric Data: ANOVA
Analysis of Variance, or ANOVA, is a powerful statistical technique used to analyze parametric data, primarily in research and experimental studies. It's designed to compare the means of two or more groups, assisting researchers in identifying any significant differences between these group means. There are two main types of ANOVA based on the complexity of the analysis: one-way and two-way.
One-way ANOVA is applied when a single independent variable or factor is scrutinized. It compares the...
One-way ANOVA is applied when a single independent variable or factor is scrutinized. It compares the...