Association for Behavior Analysis International

The "Decimal System" of Behavior and Life Problems (DSBLP) was developed in 2010-2013 for the classification of behavior problems and problems with life circumstances according to behavior-analytic concepts and principles to get a comprehensive and functional tool to guide goal setting and interventions in behavior analysis. DSBLP also includes a "mirror image" of the problem classes defined: respective behavior assets and strengths. DSBLP has nine main problem classes with subclasses and a zero class for non-problems. Seven classes are pure behavior problems of which only one class can be a primary problem at one time. Of the two problem classes, environmental and biological problems ("life problems"), one can be a primary problem simultaneously with one of the behavior problem classes. Consequently, other problem classes can be secondary problems. The DSBLP enables tailor-making individual treatments according to the goals derived from the system. The complaints of a client are first assessed using "chain analyses" of behavior that are formulated based on hierarchical decision trees included in an applied or clinical interview. The interview renders possible different types of functional assessments and analyses including experimental functional analysis. In this presentation, I will go through the different problem classes and their behavioral functions.