Date of Award

6-26-2026

Date Published

August 2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Advisor(s)

Tanya Eckert

Keywords

function-based assessments;functional analyses;intervention acceptability

Subject Categories

Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Function-Based Assessments are widely used to identify the antecedents and consequences of maladaptive behaviors across age groups. While social validation of intervention goals and procedures has long been emphasized (Wolf, 1978), the integration of acceptability assessments within Function-Based Assessments remains underexplored. This systematic review examined the extent to which acceptability assessments have been incorporated into Function-Based Assessments, along with their influence on intervention development. A total of 21 studies (N = 72) met inclusion criteria. Among the 33% of studies that reported demographic information, the majority of participants were Black, male children with disabilities in preschool or elementary settings. Physical aggression and disruption were the most common behavioral concerns. Trial-based functional assessments were predominant, and acceptability assessments were typically adapted from formal measures by researchers with minimal stakeholder input. Findings highlight a lack of reporting on how acceptability data informs assessment revisions or intervention development. Limitations include potential publication bias and narrow search parameters. Implications for future research include improving reporting standards, addressing demographic imbalances, and employing mixed-method designs to better understand the role of acceptability in behavioral assessments and interventions. Keywords: function-based assessments, functional analyses, intervention acceptability

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Open Access

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