Correspondence between traditional models of functional analysis and a functional analysis of manding behavior

Functional analysis procedures have been effectively used to determine the maintaining variables for challenging behavior and subsequently develop effective interventions. However, fear of evoking dangerous topographies of maladaptive behavior and concerns for reinforcing infrequent maladaptive behavior present challenges for people working in applied settings. The present investigation sought to evaluate the utility of an adjunctive functional analysis model that involved the reinforcement of mands rather than problem behavior and compared the results to traditional functional analyses. The results from the manding analysis yielded results similar to the traditional FA in 3 of 4 cases. These findings suggest that manding analyses may represent a useful assessment tool for difficult to assess problem behavior or for individuals in settings where consultative support is limited.

► We evaluated an alternative functional analysis (FA) model (manding analysis).
► We taught communication responses and conducted an FA on card touches.
► We compared the results of the manding FA with traditional FAs.
► We found high correspondence between the models.
► The model represents a less intrusive and empirically valid FA model.