BIP Overview

What is a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?

A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a proactive action plan to address challenging behavior(s) that are impeding learning of the student or others. These behaviors are also referred to as "problem/maladaptive behaviors", however, PENT uses the language "challenging behavior", as we believe that student behavior is not a problem, rather a learned behavior which currently meets the student's need through the use of an ineffective, challenging behavior.

It is assumed that lesser interventions at Tier I and Tier II have not been successful. If developed for a student with an IEP or 504 plan, this becomes a part of those documents. Behavior Intervention Plans should focus on understanding 'why' the behavior occurred (i.e., 'the function' or 'communicative intent') then focus on teaching an alternative behavior that meets the student's need in a more acceptable way.

A BIP includes positive behavioral interventions, strategies and supports, and identification of a desired replacement behavior for the student to learn to use in place of the challenging behavior. A BIP also includes a plan for instructional and environmental changes, providing reinforcement, reactive strategies, and effective team communication.

Developing behavior interventions that appropriately, effectively, and efficiently address the relationship between learning and challenging behavior is a complex task that requires a host of essential elements and procedures. The information included in the Behavior Intervention section of the PENT website provides the "Big Ideas" of behavior planning, comprehensive resources, guidelines, and best practice for developing, writing, and evaluating BIPs.

 

Back to About Functional Behavior Assessment | Next to Defining Challenging Behavior

 

Diana Browning Wright, who founded PENT, developed the 2007 PENT BIP Desk Reference, which supported and guided educators in the state of California on creation of Behavior Intervention Plans.