Functional Assessment Screening Tool (FAST) – Behavioral

The Functional Assessment Screening Tool (FAST) is designed to help identify the reasons behind problematic behaviors by evaluating various factors and conditions that may contribute to these behaviors.

This tool is often used in behavioral and mental health settings.

Here’s a sample of a basic Functional Assessment Screening Tool:

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Functional Assessment Screening Tool (FAST)

Patient Information

• Nom:
• Date:
• Age:
• Gender:
• Assessor:

Instructions

For each question, circle the appropriate response that best describes the individual’s behavior over the past month.

Sections and Questions

1. Sensory Stimulation

1. Does the behavior occur when the individual is alone or not receiving any attention?
   • Yes / No
2. Does the behavior occur in a relatively consistent pattern (e.g., at specific times or during specific activities)?
   • Yes / No

2. Escape/Avoidance

3. Does the behavior occur following a request to perform a task?
   • Yes / No
4. Does the behavior occur in situations where the individual is asked to stop an enjoyable activity?
   • Yes / No

3. Attention Seeking

5. Does the behavior occur when the individual receives little or no attention for a period of time?
   • Yes / No
6. Does the behavior lead to attention from others, even if it is negative (e.g., scolding)?
   • Yes / No

4. Tangible Reinforcement

7. Does the behavior occur when a desired object or activity is denied or taken away?
   • Yes / No
8. Does the behavior result in the individual gaining access to a desired object or activity?
   • Yes / No

5. Medical/Physical Factors

9. Does the individual have any medical conditions that could cause discomfort or pain?
   • Yes / No
10. Does the behavior occur during times of known medical issues (e.g., illness, injury)?
    • Yes / No

Scoring

For each “Yes” response, assign 1 point. Sum the points for each section.

Section	Score
Sensory Stimulation
Escape/Avoidance
Attention Seeking
Tangible Reinforcement
Medical/Physical Factors
Total Score

Interpretation

• Higher scores in specific sections indicate possible reasons for the behavior.
  • Sensory Stimulation: Behavior might be self-stimulatory or sensory-seeking.
  • Escape/Avoidance: Behavior might be a means to avoid or escape tasks or situations.
  • Attention Seeking: Behavior might be aimed at gaining attention.
  • Tangible Reinforcement: Behavior might be to obtain tangible rewards or activities.
  • Medical/Physical Factors: Behavior might be influenced by medical or physical discomfort.

Comments and Recommendations

• Behavioral Observations:
• Recommended Interventions:
  • Based on the identified functions, develop strategies to address and modify the behavior.
  • Consider consulting a behavioral specialist for detailed functional analysis and intervention planning.
  • Monitor the individual’s response to interventions and adjust as needed.

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Note: This assessment tool is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for accurate assessments and appropriate care plans.

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The FAST helps in understanding the underlying reasons for behaviors, enabling targeted and effective intervention strategies.