Instruction in Functional Assessment, 2014a

About the Textbook
Instruction in Functional Assessment introduces learners to functional assessment (FA), which
includes a variety of assessment approaches (indirect, observational, and experimental) for
identifying the cause of an individual’s challenging behavior for the purpose of designing
effective treatments. FA is mandated by federal law and is a recognized empirically based
approach to treatment of individuals with challenging behaviors (e.g., disruptive, selfinjurious,
and aggressive behaviors). Instruction in FA is essential for students who will
one day enter professions as educators, psychologists, social workers, counselors, or mental
health professionals.
The purpose of this textbook is to provide instruction in FA skills for pre-professionals
in the fields of education and psychology. This supplemental resource provides the context,
background, and knowledge to facilitate students’ acquisition of the methods, decisionmaking,
and skills involved in conducting FA. Each chapter begins with focus questions
designed to promote reflective thinking and ends with discussion questions. To promote
application of FA in diverse situations and teach important lessons, case studies of individuals
with challenging behaviors, interactive activities, and opportunities for practice are
embedded in the chapters. Moreover, the text includes the ingredients to facilitate students’
role play and rehearsal of appropriate FA skills while working in cooperative groups and
using performance-based training.
About the Authors
Marcie Desrochers earned her Ph.D. in experimental psychology from the University
of Manitoba with specialization in developmental disabilities, applied behavior analysis,
and computer applications in psychology. She is a board certified behavior analysis at the
doctoral level (BCBA-D). Dr. Desrochers is an Associate Professor of Psychology at The
College at Brockport, State University of New York. Marcie Desrochers has conducted
research on teaching functional assessment and evaluating the effectiveness of a computer
simulation program called Simulations in Developmental Disabilities. Marcie has extensive
experience teaching undergraduate and graduate students, and supervising students and
practitioners in the field.
Dr. Moira Fallon earned her Ph.D. in Educational Foundations from the University of New
Mexico with specialties in cognitive development and special education. She has over thirty
years of experience in the field of special education in public schools. She holds certifications
from several states in learning disabilities, behavior disabilities, early intervention, and
assistive technology. Dr. Fallon has published widely in issues of inclusion and advocacy
for individuals with disabilities. Dr. Moira Fallon has been a leader in developing learning
communities, promoting school leaders for continuous improvement, and identifying research
based, supportive resources for improving professional skills. She is a Professor in the
Department of Education and Human Development at The College at Brockport, State
University of New York.