Problem behavior such as aggression, yelling and noncompliance is common with individuals with a spectrum disorder. To provide appropriate intervention and support, it is critical to understand why a behavior occurs and what may trigger it or cause it to happen.  In this webcast, Dr. Schall will describe how to complete a Functional Behavior Assessment, a problem solving approach that assist teams in developing supports for individuals with autism who exhibit challenging behavior. Participants will learn what a functional behavior assessment is and how to complete one as well as how to use the assessment findings to develop a comprehensive behavior support plan.

 Dr. Schall has been learning from and supporting individuals with autism since the early 1980’s. She is involved in supporting individuals across Virginia through her work as the director of the Virginia Autism Resource Center at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is well versed in completing functional behavior assessments and using positive behavior supports to develop comprehensive plans for individuals from a person-centered approach. She is a state trainer for the Positive Behavior Support project with the Partnership for People with Disabilities at Virginia Commonwealth University. Finally, she in the principal investigator for the VCU ASD Career Links Project. Her research interests include the monitoring of psychotropic medication for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, transition from school to work and adulthood, and training for parents and professionals on serving individuals with developmental disabilities. Dr. Schall is listed in the 2005 and 2006 editions of Who’s Who in America and has been honored by TASH with their Positive Approaches Award. Finally, she is the lead author of the Youth with Autism Chapter in the 4th edition of Dr. Paul Wehman’s popular book Life Beyond the Classroom and editor and author of Autism and the Transition to Adulthood: Success Beyond the Classroom available through Paul H. Brookes Publishers.