Select 3 obstacles most relevant to you and discuss how to overcome them.

Hanley (2012) discussed a number of obstacles to conducting functional analyses of problem behaviors. Select 3 obstacles most relevant to you and discuss how to overcome them. This can either be based on experience or interest – but you must refer to the academic literature to support the discussion. 

Sample Solution

1. Difficulty in identifying the function of the problem behavior: One of the main obstacles in conducting functional analyses is the difficulty in identifying the function of the problem behavior. This is often due to the complex and multi-faceted nature of problem behaviors, which may have multiple functions across different contexts. To overcome this obstacle, researchers and practitioners can use a variety of assessment methods such as the multiple-baseline design across behaviors, settings, and individuals (Hanley, Iwata, & McCord, 2003). Additionally, using a combination of direct observation, interviews, and self-report measures can also help to increase the accuracy and reliability of the functional analysis process.
2. Staff resistance: Another obstacle is staff resistance to conducting functional analyses and implementing the results. Staff may be resistant due to a lack of understanding of the process or concerns about the time and resources required. To overcome this obstacle, it is important to provide staff with training and education on the functional analysis process and its benefits. Additionally, involving staff in the functional analysis process can increase their buy-in and commitment to implementing the results (Vollmer & Iwata, 1994).
3. Difficulty in controlling for extraneous variables: A third obstacle is the difficulty in controlling for extraneous variables that may affect the outcome of the functional analysis. For example, the behavior may be influenced by factors such as changes in the environment, the presence of certain individuals, or the time of day. To overcome this obstacle, researchers can use a variety of experimental designs such as the reversal design (Iwata, Dorsey, Slifer, Bauman, & Richman, 1982) or the multiple-baseline design across settings (Hanley, Iwata, & McCord, 2003) to control for extraneous variables and increase the internal validity…Order a customized and more comprehensive answer here