EVERY behavior has a function, or purpose. In order to change behavior with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), it's important to understand the purpose of behavior.
Sensory/Automatic:
Student engages in target behaviors in order to seek tactile, auditory or other sensations.
Escape:
Student engages in target behaviors to escape, delay, or avoid an event, sensation, person, item or activity
Attention:
Student engages in target behaviors in order to gain attention from peers or adults. This attention can be positive (praise) or negative (correction, reprimands).
Tangible:
Student engages in target behaviors in order to gain access to an item, person or activity.
Clear, concise instructions are always helpful
Offering controlled choices increases the liklihood of cooperation while still completing the demand.