The convergent validity of the Questions About Behavioral Function scale and functional analysis for problem behavior displayed by individuals with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Only a few studies have compared the convergent validity of the Questions About Behavioral Function (QABF) scale to the results of functional analyses (FA). In the current study, six participants who emitted problem behaviors participated in either a brief, or a no-interaction-series FA, while each participant's parent completed the QABF. The results of the study showed that for five participants, the QABF and the FA identified the same non-social function. For one participant, the QABF and FA identified potentially dual functions. Based on our findings, we suggest that the QABF could be embedded within a five-step functional assessment protocol.