Which process involves gathering and interpreting information regarding the antecedents and consequences affecting a behavior?

The correct answer pertains to functional analysis, which is a systematic method used to identify the relationships between specific behaviors and their antecedents and consequences. In functional analysis, the therapist or practitioner observes the behavior in various contexts, altering those contexts to see how changes impact the behavior. This method allows for the identification of the conditions that trigger and maintain the behavior, providing valuable insights that can inform effective interventions.

Functional analysis is integral in applied behavior analysis (ABA) and is foundational in understanding behaviors in a clear, objective manner. By specifically focusing on the antecedents (what occurs before the behavior) and consequences (what occurs after the behavior), functional analysis helps to clarify why a behavior is occurring and what reinforces it. This level of detail is crucial for developing targeted and appropriate treatment strategies that address the specific needs of the individual.

In contrast, cases like case studies and diagnostic evaluations focus on a broader context and may not involve the same level of systematic manipulation of variables as functional analysis does. A case study typically looks at an individual’s history or situation in-depth without attempting to isolate specific behavior influences. Similarly, a diagnostic evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment to determine a person’s needs or disorders without the same emphasis on the antecedent-consequence relationship as found in functional analysis