What technique should the team use to identify environmental variables contributing to a student's problem behavior?

The Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) is the appropriate technique to identify environmental variables that contribute to a student's problem behavior. An FBA involves a systematic process of gathering data about the context in which certain behaviors occur, including the specific antecedents (triggers) and consequences of those behaviors. This analysis allows educators and support teams to gain insight into the function or purpose that the behavior serves for the student, whether it is to gain attention, escape a task, or access a desired item or activity.

By understanding the environmental factors that lead to the problem behavior, the team can develop targeted interventions that address the root causes rather than just the symptoms of the behavior. This approach is critical in creating effective behavior intervention strategies that promote positive behaviors and support the student's overall learning and development.

Other techniques, such as ABC Analysis, while useful, may not provide the comprehensive insight into variables influencing behavior that a full FBA offers. Similarly, a Behavior Intervention Plan outlines strategies based on the findings from an FBA but does not directly assess the environmental influences. Teacher Observation Records can provide valuable anecdotal data but lack the systematic approach necessary for fully understanding the complex interaction between a student’s behavior and their environment that an FBA provides.