Module 5: Behaviour Analysis and Behavioural Components

This module focuses on the systematic analysis of behaviour and the factors that influence behavioural performance. Participants learn that behaviour must be defined precisely if it is to be assessed, understood or changed. The module introduces the importance of specifying the action being performed, the target of the behaviour, the context in which the behaviour occurs and the relevant time period. Participants examine overt and covert behaviour, voluntary and automatic behaviour, habitual responses, antecedents, triggers, reinforcement, consequences and situational influences. Particular attention is given to functional behaviour analysis, which helps practitioners identify what happens before a behaviour, what the individual does and what happens afterward that may strengthen or maintain the behaviour. Participants also compare direct behavioural observation with self-reported behaviour and examine the strengths and limitations of each approach. The professional application of the module is the development of a behavioural diagnostic profile that allows practitioners to move from general descriptions such as “poor discipline” or “lack of motivation” toward clearly defined behavioural patterns that can be measured and addressed through targeted intervention.