Don’t Take It Personally:
It’s Just Behavior!
Ever asked yourself, “Why is this kid acting like this?!” You're not alone - and the answer might be simpler (and more powerful) than you think. In this interactive session, we’ll unpack the concept of behavioral function - a fancy way of saying “the reason behavior is happening.” You’ll learn how to view challenging behavior not as defiance or bad kids, but as an effective, albeit undesirable, way to meet their needs. We’ll discuss, engage, and grow our collective understanding of the main types of behavioral functions, quick and practical ways to spot what might be driving behavior, and strategies to teach more adaptive behaviors and reduce power struggles. This perspective will help boost not only effectiveness, but also compassion. Whether you’re a teacher, director, or leader, you’ll leave with tools to make your day smoother, your team stronger, and your heart just a little lighter.
Dr. Stacie Bancroft
Who is Dr. Stacie Bancroft?
I have spent over 20 years working to help children, families, and professionals reach their goals through the application of behavior analysis. I have enjoyed the opportunity to consistently serve as a clinician, researcher, leader, and educator. I am currently a Program Director at the New England Center for Children, have taught several different Masters and Ph.D. level courses at multiple universities, and run a research lab that focuses on teaching leisure and enhancing quality of life where we have published in industry leading journals and presented at conferences across the country. I have decades of experience and expertise in autism and other developmental disabilities, as well as typically developing children. I have also been honored to serve as the President of the Massachusetts professional organization for behavior analysts (BABAT) for the past 5 years, where I have worked with an outstanding team to grow the organization to be a home for Massachusetts behavior analysts. In my clinical work I take a creative and science-based approach to help improve quality of life. My clinical work is focused on a compassionate, joyful, and value-based approach. I bring an expertise in behavior, but the people I serve are the experts on themselves, their children, and their goals. Together we develop a path to success and reach identified life goals, big and small! My husband and I are also the parents of three amazing children that capture our hearts each day!