The Functions of Childhood Behavior Explained
- BloomBHC
- Jul 12
- 3 min read

If there’s one thing every parent can agree on, it’s that children can be a mystery at times. Behaviors can cause confusion, concern and frustration, especially when they seem to pop up out of nowhere. The truth is, however, that is generally always a reason behind the behavior, even if it doesn’t seem logical to anyone else.
As behavior therapists, we are trained to look beyond what the behavior looks like in order to understand what exactly the behavior is trying to communicate. Every behavior has a purpose. In the world of ABA Therapy, we call this the function of behavior. Understanding that can help parents and caregivers react better to the situation and make it easier to work toward alternative methods of communication. Keep reading to learn the four main functions of behavior.
The Four Main Functions of Behavior
Attention: Sometimes, the way a child behaves is meant to gain your attention, whether that is positive or negative. A child who screams knows that it will result in someone looking at them and speaking to them, even if it’s just to tell them they need to stop.
Escape: Behavior can also be used as a tool to avoid or escape something the child doesn’t like. For example, if they are served a food they don’t like, they may throw their fork across the table or hide under the table. When it’s time for bedtime routines, they may run away when it’s time for a certain task they don’t like.
Access: Some behaviors have the intention of gaining something, like a child crying in the store because they want candy or snatching a toy from another kid. They know that they want something, so they act out in a way that they feel in the moment will allow them access to it.
Sensory: At times, a behavior is automatic, happening because it feels good or calming. They serve an internal, sensory need. These behaviors may look like rocking back and forth, humming, hand-flapping, pacing, and so on.
Why The Function Of Behavior Matters
Negative behaviors can be extremely frustrating for parents and caregivers, but it doesn’t have to always be this way. Understanding the function of behavior and getting to the bottom of why it’s happening can help form a more effective response. The child isn’t being “bad,” they are just communicating in the ways they currently know how to receive some kind of response. Ask yourself first what happened right before the behavior started and what did your child gain from doing it. As we start to understand the function, we can guide the child toward safer and more effective behaviors to meet their needs.
How ABA Therapy Can Help
At Bloom Behavioral Healthcare, we focus on discovering the why behind your child’s behavior, and from there equipping them - and your family - with effective strategies for success in daily life. We work with your child to figure out the communication techniques that work best for them, setting ongoing goals that aim to improve their ability to express themselves which in turn will alleviate problematic behaviors. The purpose is never to change the child, but to give them the tools to advocate for themselves, communicate their needs and feel more confident in who they are.
If you’re ready to better understand your child’s behavior and specific needs, we’re here and ready to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn how we can support your family’s goals.
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