A Two-Step Validation of the Performance-Based IISCA: A Trauma-Informed Functional Analysis Model

Introduction

Functional analysis is a crucial tool in behavior analysis, allowing professionals to identify environmental factors that contribute to problem behaviors. However, traditional functional analysis methods have raised concerns regarding safety and ethical considerations, particularly for individuals with a history of trauma.

To address these concerns, researchers have developed the **Performance-Based IISCA (Interview-Informed Synthesized Contingency Analysis)**—a trauma-informed alternative that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and the reinforcement of calm behaviors.

A recent study by Jessel et al. (2024) validates this model through a two-step process, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing problem behavior and increasing appropriate replacement behaviors. This blog post outlines the key aspects, methodology, and findings of this research.

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Understanding Functional Analysis and Its Challenges

What Is Functional Analysis?

Functional analysis (FA) is a systematic approach used to identify why problem behaviors occur by analyzing environmental variables that reinforce those behaviors.

Common Risks of Traditional Functional Analysis:

1. Prolonged Exposure to Evocative Events – Sessions may repeatedly elicit problem behaviors, potentially reinforcing them.
2. Risk of Retraumatization – Individuals with a trauma history may experience stress and anxiety due to traditional FA procedures.
3. Use of Physical Management – When severe behaviors occur, physical interventions may be required, posing ethical concerns.

Given these risks, behavior analysts have sought trauma-informed functional assessments that reduce exposure to aversive experiences while maintaining accuracy in identifying function.

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What Is the Performance-Based IISCA?

The Performance-Based IISCA (P-IISCA) is a trauma-informed adaptation of the IISCA method that reduces exposure to problem behaviors while maintaining reliability in assessing function.

Key Features of the Performance-Based IISCA:

1. Reduced Exposure to Problem Behavior – Prioritizes reinforcement of calm precursor behaviors instead of waiting for problem behavior to occur.
2. Single-Session Efficiency – Unlike traditional FAs, which can require multiple sessions, the Performance-Based IISCA is conducted in one session.
3. Emphasis on Safety – Focuses on reinforcing alternative behaviors rather than escalating problem behavior.

Unlike traditional functional analysis, which may require repeated exposures to challenging behavior, P-IISCA aims to gather the same functional information in a less intrusive and safer manner.

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Core Commitments of Trauma-Informed Functional Analysis

Trauma-informed care (TIC) principles have been integrated into the Performance-Based IISCA to reduce distress and ensure ethical best practices.

Four Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Functional Analysis:

1. Acknowledging Trauma and Its Impact – Recognizing that previous adverse experiences may influence behavior and response to assessment.
2. Ensuring Safety and Trust – Creating an assessment environment that minimizes risk while maximizing participant comfort.
3. Promoting Choice and Shared Governance – Involving the individual in decisions regarding their assessment and intervention.
4. Emphasizing Skill Building – Reinforcing appropriate replacement behaviors rather than eliciting problem behavior.

By adhering to these principles, analysts ensure that assessment methods prioritize well-being while maintaining scientific accuracy.

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Study Methodology: How the Model Was Validated

Participants and Setting

The study involved 11 individuals from both the United States and Brazil, ranging in age and diagnostic backgrounds. Sessions were conducted across various environments, including:

• Home settings
• Outpatient clinics
• Specialized education settings

Study Design and Process

The researchers validated the Performance-Based IISCA using a two-step process:

1. Step One: Comparing P-IISCA to Traditional IISCA

   • Researchers conducted a single session of the Performance-Based IISCA and compared results to those obtained through traditional IISCA.
   • Measures included session duration, the occurrence of problem behavior, and accuracy in identifying behavior functions.

2. Step Two: Implementing Function-Based Treatments

   • Once behavior functions were identified, targeted treatment interventions were introduced.
   • Treatment success was measured by the reduction in problem behavior and increases in appropriate replacement behaviors.

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Key Findings: Evaluation of the Performance-Based IISCA

The results highlight three major benefits of the Performance-Based IISCA compared to traditional approaches:

1. Greater Efficiency

   • Performance-Based IISCA identified behavior functions in 56% less time than traditional IISCA.
   • Less assessment time means quicker transition to effective intervention.

2. Fewer Instances of Dangerous Problem Behavior

   • Because researchers reinforced precursor behaviors instead of problem behaviors, fewer severe behavioral episodes occurred.
   • This supports trauma-informed objectives of ensuring safety and limiting distress.

3. Higher Levels of Calm Behavior

• Participants remained calm for a significantly greater portion of sessions.
• The model reinforced early indicators of distress, reducing the need for physical management techniques.

Additionally, treatment interventions developed from P-IISCA data were universally effective, demonstrating its validity in creating successful function-based interventions.

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Why a Trauma-Informed Functional Assessment Matters

Benefits of the Performance-Based IISCA for Practitioners and Clients:

• Reduces Exposure to Aversive Experiences – Minimizes distress when assessing problem behaviors.
• More Ethical and Practical for Diverse Populations – Particularly beneficial for individuals with a trauma history or severe problem behavior.
• Speeds Up Treatment Implementation – Enables a quicker transition from assessment to intervention.

By using P-IISCA, behavior analysts can continue delivering evidence-based interventions while staying aligned with modern trauma-informed care guidelines.

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Final Thoughts and Next Steps

The research by Jessel et al. (2024) provides strong empirical support for the Performance-Based IISCA as a safe, efficient, and trauma-informed alternative to traditional functional analysis.

By incorporating trauma-informed principles, this model not only maintains assessment accuracy but also prioritizes participant well-being—a critical step toward ethical behavior analysis practices.

Behavior Analysts Should Consider:

✔️ Implementing Performance-Based IISCA in clinical practice.
✔️ Continuing education on trauma-informed functional analysis approaches.
✔️ Supporting further research on ethical and humane assessment models.

👉 Read the full study here: 10.1007/s40617-023-00792-2.