What is a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?
A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a structured plan designed to address interfering behaviors by identifying their underlying causes and outlining specific strategies to reduce and teach replacement behaviors.
BIPs are rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles and are tailored to meet the individual needs of a child, especially those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The core components of a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) include:
- A clear description of the interfering behavior
- Identification of triggers or antecedents
- The function or purpose the behavior serves
- Preventative strategies and environmental modifications
- Replacement behaviors to be taught
- Reinforcement methods
- Response strategies for when the behavior occurs
BIPs are often developed following a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) conducted by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The plan helps ensure that everyone working with the child—Behavior Technicians, teachers, and parents—uses consistent, effective strategies.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, BIPs are a key component of a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) if the behavior impedes learning.
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Examples of Behavior Intervention Plans in ABA Therapy
Example 1: Replacing Aggression with Functional Communication
A child frequently hits others when denied access to a preferred toy. The FBA reveals the function is access to tangibles. The BIP includes teaching the child to use a communication device to request the item and rewarding them for using that method instead of hitting.
Example 2: Addressing Interrupting Behavior in the Classroom
A student frequently calls out during lessons. The plan identifies the function as gaining attention. The BIP outlines a plan to reinforce hand-raising and provides scheduled teacher check-ins to proactively meet the student’s attention needs.
Example 3: Reducing Elopement After a Demand
A child often runs to a different room when asked to transition to a non-preferred task. The BIP includes visual schedules, pre-transition warnings, and teaching the child to request breaks appropriately.
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FAQs About Behavior Intervention Plans
What is the purpose of a Behavior Intervention Plan?
A BIP is designed to decrease interfering behaviors by understanding their function and teaching appropriate alternative behaviors. It ensures consistent and evidence-based responses across caregivers and environments.
How is a BIP different from a Behavior Support Plan?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a Behavior Support Plan is often broader and may be used in settings beyond education. A BIP is typically more structured and directly linked to an FBA and IEP in school settings.
Who writes a Behavior Intervention Plan?
BIPs are usually written by a qualified professional, such as a BCBA, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team including parents, teachers, and support staff. The plan is based on data collected during the FBA.
Is a BIP only used for children with autism?
No. While BIPs are commonly used in autism therapy, they can be developed for any individual displaying interfering behaviors, regardless of diagnosis, especially in educational and therapeutic settings.
How often should a BIP be updated?
BIPs should be reviewed regularly, often every few months, or sooner if the child’s behavior changes significantly or if the interventions are not working as expected.
Key Takeaways About Behavior Intervention Plans
- A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a personalized, data-driven strategy for reducing interfering behaviors and teaching replacement behaviors.
- BIPs are commonly used in ABA therapy and educational settings to support children with autism.
- Plans are based on the findings of a Functional Behavior Assessment and require collaboration across caregivers.
- Effective BIPs promote consistency, safety, and improved outcomes for the child.
- Regular updates and monitoring ensure the plan continues to meet the child’s evolving needs.
