What is the ABC model of behaviour?
The ABC model records Antecedent (what happens just before a behaviour), Behaviour (what the child does, described objectively) and Consequence (what happens immediately after). Recording ABC data over time reveals patterns, such as triggers or responses that keep a behaviour going, and helps teachers plan changes to prevent problems and teach better alternatives.
What this means in practice
ABC recording is simple enough for teachers, shadow teachers and parents to use, and it shifts attention from blaming the child to understanding the situation.
How to record
- Antecedent: 'Asked to copy from the board.'
- Behaviour: 'Threw pencil on the floor.'
- Consequence: 'Sent to sit outside class for 10 minutes.'
- Add date, time, setting and who was present.
Reading the pattern
If behaviour often follows hard tasks and leads to removal, the function may be escape. Changing the task or teaching a break request may help.
Using ABC data to plan change
Once a pattern appears, change the antecedent first, because preventing a trigger is easier than managing a behaviour. For example, if a child shouts when given long worksheets, start with shorter worksheets. Next, look at consequences: if shouting leads to the worksheet being removed, the child learns that shouting works. Instead, teach and reward a better way to ask for help or a break, such as raising a card. Keep recording after the change to see whether the behaviour reduces, and share the results with the team and family. A typical ABC sheet has five columns: date and time, setting, antecedent, behaviour and consequence.
Practical next steps
- Prepare a simple ABC sheet.
- Record each incident promptly.
- Review the sheet weekly.
- Discuss patterns with the team.
What to keep in mind
Describe behaviour objectively; avoid words like 'naughty' or 'rude'.
Common follow-up questions
Can parents use ABC charts?
Yes, they are useful at home too.
How many incidents should I record?
Enough to show a pattern, often 10 to 15 incidents.
Sources
- IRIS Center, Vanderbilt University: special education modules
- Center on PBIS: Positive behavioral interventions and supports
Sources inform the explanation; examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.