This one-hour recorded presentation will explore Functional Motivational Assessment (FMA) in depth. This advanced approach goes beyond traditional Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to understand the underlying motives of student behavior. The session will integrate insights from John Zbornik's FMA and Donald Davidson's Theory of Action to enhance behavior intervention strategies in educational settings.

This recorded presentation will equip school psychologists with advanced tools and knowledge to better understand and address student behavior by integrating motivational and contextual analyses into their assessments. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for implementing Functional Motivational Assessment in their practice, leading to more effective and holistic student interventions.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the limitations of traditional FBAs: Highlight the focus on observable behaviors and immediate triggers and identify the gap in addressing underlying motives.
2. Introduce Functional Motivational Assessment (FMA): Explain the concept of FMA and its significance in understanding the 'why' behind student behavior.
3. Integrate Theoretical Frameworks: Discuss how Donald Davidson's Theory of Action complements FMA by providing a philosophical foundation for understanding reasons and intentions behind actions.
4. Apply FMA in Practice: Demonstrate practical steps for conducting FMAs, including motivational interviewing and contextual analysis.
5. Develop Effective Interventions: Provide strategies for creating comprehensive intervention plans that address both observable behaviors and their underlying motives.

Presenter:  John Zbornik, PhD

John Zbornik Ph.D. is a Psychologist/School Psychologist with over 30 years of practice. John is in private practice specializing in assessing Learning Disabilities, Autism, Attention Problems, Anxiety, Depression, and Academic Anxiety Disorders. John's research interests have concentrated on Academic Anxiety Disorders, particularly Reading Anxiety.

1 Hours Earned

Because of our Community of Practice grant this year, OSPA is able to provide this webinar for FREE to members.  Non-member cost is $15.

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There are no copyright restrictions on this document. However, please cite and credit the source when copying all or part of this document. This document was supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, (Award Number H027A210111, CFDA 84.027A, awarded to the Ohio Department of Education). The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, and no official endorsement by the Department should be inferred.