Engage in Function-Based Thinking to More Deeply Understand Students

“Beneath every behavior there is a feeling. And beneath each feeling is a need. And when we meet that need, rather than focus on the behavior, we begin to deal with the cause, not the symptom.”

– Ashleigh Warner

A valuable lesson I learned as a high school principal is the importance of understanding the why behind challenging student behaviors. I recall one instance when two students left campus together to smoke. On the surface, their actions appeared identical, but their motivations were very different. One student sought a nicotine fix, while the other was avoiding their third-period class due to ongoing conflicts with the teacher. While the specific infraction was the same, the root cause of their behavior was different and the consequences needed to be differentiated based on each student’s motivation. In this example, one student was offered a smoking cessation class to address their nicotine dependency, while the other participated in a restorative process with their teacher to rebuild their relationship. Addressing the function of behavior requires us to look deeper, uncover triggers, and respond with tailored interventions.

Oftentimes, behavior is quickly labeled as “acting out,” but this oversimplification misses a critical opportunity for understanding. By examining the root causes of a student’s actions, we uncover the purpose behind the behavior. This understanding is essential, as the function of behavior not only shapes actions but also adds layers of complexity to how they manifest. Establishing a shared mental model for interpreting behavior is vital in creating thoughtful, effective interventions. Use the flow chart on function based thinking to help identify and implement interventions on student behavior.

One way to build this into your school structure and culture is to provide your staff with dedicated time during professional learning to deepen their understanding of students and consider the function behind their behavior. This reflective process allows patterns to emerge, enabling staff to identify root causes and design targeted interventions. Effective support may involve collaboration with counselors, community members, or external organizations to address the underlying needs and ensure holistic support for the student.

By taking the time to understand the root cause of behavior, we not only address the immediate issue but also build a foundation for lasting growth and change. Every student brings a unique set of experiences, motivations, and challenges, and it is our responsibility to respond with empathy, intention, and a clear understanding of the function behind their actions.

When we approach behavior with this mindset, we move beyond one-size-fits-all consequences and create opportunities for meaningful interventions. This work takes time and collaboration, but the rewards are immense: stronger relationships, a more supportive school community, and ultimately, students who feel seen, understood, and empowered to make better choices. 

About the Author

Dr. Matt Coleman is the CEO of Inflexion, where he leverages his deep-rooted expertise in school systems change to drive impactful educational reform. With a career spanning various roles—from educational assistant to assistant superintendent—Matt’s experience encompasses every level of secondary education.

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