ABA addresses challenging behaviors by starting with a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). This process examines what happens before and after the behavior to determine its function, such as escaping a task, seeking attention, accessing a preferred item, or fulfilling a sensory need.
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Once the function is known, therapists design interventions that teach the child an appropriate and effective replacement behavior. Instead of attempting to suppress the behavior itself, ABA focuses on helping the child meet their underlying need in a safer, more independent way.
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Interventions may include modifying the environment, adjusting demands, teaching communication skills, or reinforcing desired behaviors that serve the same purpose.

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• Teaching a child to request a break instead of engaging in aggression to escape a difficult task.
  
• Teaching a child to ask for a toy instead of grabbing or hitting to obtain it.
  
  

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