Problem: The student engages in off-task and possibly distracting behavior.

Behavioral Possibility: Avoid Specific Tasks

Step 1: Organize observations relevant to the problematic behavior/issue

• Who is reporting the problem?
• When does it occur? (Include time of day, activities etc).
• Where does it occur?
• What tends to precede the problematic behavior/issue?
• What tends to follow the problematic behavior/issue?
• What is the age and functioning level of the student?
• Previous documentation/charts?

Step 2: Identify possible contributors to the problematic behavior/issue

Some students may engage in off-task and possibly distracting behavior in the classroom as a way to avoid specific tasks. (See Tutorials on Noncompliance; Errorless Learning; Problem Solving; Initiation; Behavior Management: Prevention Strategies; Behavior Management: Contingency Management.)

Relevant observations: The student engages in problem behaviors when tasks are difficult or otherwise undesirable.

Useful experiments for assessment and intervention:

1. Observe and record the frequency and/or intensity of the problem behavior when a new teaching strategy or support is being implemented versus when it is not being implemented.
2. Possible exploratory teaching strategies or supports for task avoidance (See Tutorials on Noncompliance; Errorless Learning; Problem Solving; Initiation): (1) Systematically observe and compare behavior in a setting and/or activity that the student enjoys (e.g., Gym) versus a setting and/or activity that the student does not enjoy (e.g., Math). (2) Add enjoyable elements to tasks that the student appears to avoid. (3) Simplify the tasks that the student appears to avoid, add the assistance of a collaborator, or in other ways ensure success.
3. If the frequency and/or intensity of the targeted behavior decreases during intervention, then task avoidance may be contributing to the problem behavior. (See Tutorials on Noncompliance; Errorless Learning; Problem Solving; Initiation; Behavior Management: Prevention Strategies; Behavior Management: Contingency Management.)

Possible referrals: School psychologist or behavior specialist for behavioral assessment and behavior management stategies