Understanding the Four Functions of Behaviour: A Guide for Parents
LollyWilliams-Gibbs Williams-Gibbs 
The four functions of behaviour—sensory, escape, attention, tangibles—and get tips to manage them with empathetic parenting for a harmonious home.
Hello, lovely readers!
Welcome back to my blog. Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s incredibly important for parents, caregivers, and anyone involved in the lives of children: the four functions of behaviour. Understanding these can help you navigate the often confusing world of child behaviour with more empathy and effectiveness.
All Behaviour is Communication
First, let’s remember that all behaviour—whether from children or adults—is a form of communication. Especially with young children who may not yet have the vocabulary to express themselves, behaviour becomes their primary way of telling us what they need or how they feel.
The Four Functions of Behaviour
1. Sensory Stimulation
Behaviour can often be driven by sensory needs. Children, especially those with sensory processing disorders, ADHD, or autism, might behave in certain ways to either increase or decrease sensory input. For example, a child might flap their hands or make repetitive noises because it feels good to them or helps them manage their sensory environment. Conversely, they might cover their ears or withdraw if the sensory input is overwhelming.
Tip: Pay attention to your child’s sensory needs. If they seem overstimulated, provide a calming environment. If they’re under stimulated, engage them in activities that meet their sensory needs.
2. Escape or Avoidance
Sometimes, children behave in ways to avoid something unpleasant. This might be a task they find difficult or boring, a social situation that makes them anxious, or even just a daily routine they don’t enjoy. For instance, a child might throw a tantrum to avoid doing homework or to get out of going to school.
Tip: Try to identify what your child is trying to avoid and address the underlying issue. Making tasks more engaging or breaking them into smaller, manageable steps can help.
3. Attention Seeking
Everyone craves attention, and children are no exception. If they don’t receive positive attention, they might resort to negative behaviours to get it. This could be anything from acting out in class to picking fights with siblings.
Tip: Make a conscious effort to catch your child being good and reward them with positive attention. This reinforcement will encourage them to repeat the good behaviour.
4. Access to Tangibles
This type of behaviour is aimed at obtaining something they want, such as a toy, food, or screen time. You might see a child throwing a fit in a store because they want a candy bar or refusing to do anything until they get their favourite toy.
Tip: Set clear boundaries and be consistent with them. If a child learns that throwing a tantrum won’t get them what they want, they’ll be less likely to use that behaviour in the future.
Digging Deeper: Sensory Behaviour
Let’s take a closer look at sensory behaviour, especially since it’s something I’ve personally dealt with as an SEN (Special Educational Needs) mum. My son, for instance, was diagnosed with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. Understanding his sensory needs has been crucial in helping manage his behavior.
Imagine you’ve had a long, exhausting day, and everything around you feels overwhelming—the kids are noisy, the TV is blaring, dinner is burning, and you just snap. That’s how a child feels when they’re overstimulated. On the flip side, if they’re not getting enough sensory input, they might act out to seek that stimulation.
Tip: Regular physical activity can help manage sensory needs. For my son, a daily run was essential. Consider activities that allow your child to expend energy and balance their sensory input.
Avoidance Behaviour
Next, let’s talk about avoidance. This behaviour is often seen in children trying to dodge tasks they find unpleasant or anxiety-inducing. For example, a child might consistently have a tummy ache every Monday to avoid going to school.
Tip: If avoidance behaviour is persistent, dig deeper to understand the root cause. Is there something specific about school or a particular subject that’s troubling your child? Addressing these underlying issues can help mitigate avoidance behaviour.
Attention-Seeking Behaviour
Attention-seeking behaviour is perhaps the most common. Children need and want attention, and if they don’t get it through positive means, they’ll find other ways.
Tip: Provide ample positive reinforcement. Praise your child for their good behaviour, no matter how small. This can be more effective than simply punishing negative behaviour.
Tangibles
Lastly, behaviours aimed at gaining access to tangibles can be tricky. Children quickly learn that certain behaviours will get them what they want, whether it’s more screen time or a snack.
Tip: Establish clear and consistent rules. If you give in to tantrums, even occasionally, it teaches your child that this behaviour is an effective way to get what they want. Stick to your boundaries and reinforce positive behaviour instead.
Final Thoughts
Remember, parenting is a journey, and understanding the functions of behaviour is a powerful tool in your toolkit. It’s all about being mindful and empathetic to your child’s needs and motivations. If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out.
Happy parenting!
Love,
Lolly 🌸
