Steps in OBM

Step 1:

The first step in OBM is to identify the performance-related behavioral events.  This behavior needs to have to components.

Behavior must be directly observe

Behavior must be related to performance

Step 2:

The second step in OBM is to measure the behavior.  Usually frequency counts are used.  The function served by measuring the behavior include:

 Indicates the severity of the behavioral problem

Graphing the frequency of the behavior helps to identify environmental consequences.

The graph also allows for intervention results to be compared to baseline behaviors.

Step 3:

The third step in OBM is the functional analysis of the behavior.  This involves breaking the behavior and environment down into the functional components: Antecedents(A) Behavior(B) and Consequences(C).  Methods of assessing the antecedents and consequences includes:

Observation of the situation allows for the change agent to list the possible cues and consequences.

Interviewing the performers or other persons in the environment is also useful at identifying the antecedents and consequences.

Examining the frequency graph allows for “celebrations” in the behavior to be linked to environmental events which will help maintain the behavior.

Step 4:

The fourth step in OBM is to evaluate and refine the intervention to ensure it is leading to performance improvement.  Use of reversal, multiple baseline, and control group experimental designs allow for this evaluation.