rbt D.1 Functions of Behavior (SEAT)

By RBThub February 23, 2026

Imagine you are a detective. A client is screaming. Your job isn't just to stop the screaming; it's to figure out why they are screaming.

In ABA, we believe that all behavior happens for a reason. There are only four reasons (functions) for every behavior you have ever done in your life. We call them the Four Functions of Behavior (SEAT).

Executive Summary

This video provides a deep dive into the four functions of behavior: Sensory, Escape, Attention, and Tangible. It clarifies common misconceptions (like thinking "Sensory" means only stimming) and explains why knowing the function is the only way to choose the right intervention.

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:41
Attention
Behavior to gain a reaction from others (e.g., praise, eye contact, or even reprimands).
02:51
Tangible
Behavior to gain an item or activity (e.g., iPad, cookie, toy).
04:41
Escape/Avoidance
Behavior to get away from a task, demand, or aversive situation. (Escape = Stop it now; Avoidance = Prevent it from happening).
07:17
Sensory (Automatic)
Behavior that feels good to do. It does not rely on anyone else. (e.g., scratching an itch, humming).

🔑 Key Insights

Socially Mediated: Three of the functions (E, A, T) require another person to give you what you want.
Automatic: Only "Sensory" is automatic. You can do it alone on a desert island.
Reprimands are Attention: Yelling "Stop that!" is a form of attention. If the child likes it, you just reinforced the bad behavior.
Escape vs. Avoidance: Escape stops the rain (opening an umbrella). Avoidance stops you from getting wet (staying inside).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a behavior have two functions?
A: Yes! A child might scream to get out of work (Escape) AND to get the teacher to look at them (Attention).
Q: Why is "Control" not a function?
A: "Control" is not a scientific function. Usually, when people say "Control," they mean Access to Tangibles (controlling the remote) or Escape (controlling the schedule).

1. The Four Functions (SEAT) Visualized

Memorize "SEAT." It is the most common acronym in ABA.
S - Sensory (Automatic) "Feels Good" Done Alone E - Escape (Avoidance) "Get Away" Socially Mediated A - Attention (Social) "Look at Me" Socially Mediated T - Tangible (Access) "I Want That" Socially Mediated

2. Socially Mediated vs. Automatic

Exam Tip

The "Alone" Test: If a person engages in the behavior when they are completely alone in a room, it is likely Automatic (Sensory). If they only do it when others are around, it is likely Socially Mediated (E, A, T).

📝 Knowledge Check

Identify the function.

Q1: A student rips up their worksheet. The teacher sends them to time-out. In the future, the student rips up more worksheets. What is the function?

Answer: Escape.
The behavior (ripping) resulted in the removal of the demand (worksheet).

Q2: A child spins in circles in their bedroom when no one is watching. What is the likely function?

Answer: Sensory (Automatic).
It feels good internally. They don't need an audience.
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Reduction Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on the 4 Functions of Behavior.

Start Practice Test

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