Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Behavior Interventionist Roles – 2025

Preparing for a behavior interventionist job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your knowledge, skills, and experience in working with children and individuals with behavioral challenges. Whether you're applying for a role in a school, clinical setting, or as a private contractor, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. What motivated you to become a behavior interventionist?
  Answer: I have always been passionate about working with children and helping them reach their full potential. After learning more about behavior intervention and seeing the positive impact it can have on individuals with behavioral challenges, I knew it was the career path for me.
• 2. Can you tell us about a successful behavior intervention plan you created and implemented?
  Answer: During my previous role, I worked with a child who had difficulty following directions and often displayed disruptive behaviors. I collaborated with the child's parents, teachers, and therapists to develop a behavior intervention plan. Through consistent implementation and modifications, we saw a significant improvement in the child's behavior over time.
• 3. How do you assess and identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors?
  Answer: Before creating a behavior intervention plan, I thoroughly assess the individual's behavior, their environment, and any potential triggers. I also gather input from other caregivers or professionals who work with the individual to get a holistic understanding of the situation.
• 4. What is your experience working with individuals with various behavioral challenges?
  Answer: I have experience working with individuals with a range of behavioral challenges, including autism, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and anxiety. I have received training in various behavior intervention techniques and have applied them successfully with different individuals.
• 5. Can you tell us about a time when you had to handle a challenging behavior during a session?
  Answer: During a session, a child became aggressive and refused to participate in any activities. I remained calm and used de-escalation techniques to help the child regulate their emotions. I then slowly introduced small tasks and praised the child for their efforts until they were able to engage in the session fully.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What experience do you have in creating and implementing behavior intervention plans?
  Answer: I have experience creating and implementing behavior intervention plans in various settings, including schools, clinics, and homes. I have training in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and other evidence-based behavior intervention techniques.
• 7. Can you explain the principles of ABA and how you have applied them in your work?
  Answer: ABA is a scientific approach to understanding and changing behavior. It involves systematically analyzing behaviors, identifying the functions of the behavior, and implementing interventions to modify the behavior. I have applied ABA principles by conducting thorough assessments, setting clear and measurable goals, and using positive reinforcement as a key component of behavior change.
• 8. How do you collect data and track progress in a behavior intervention plan?
  Answer: I use various methods to collect data, including direct observation, behavior rating scales, and tracking sheets. I also involve parents or other caregivers in tracking progress and provide frequent updates on the individual's behavior and progress towards the goals outlined in the intervention plan.
• 9. Have you worked with children with special needs and how did you accommodate for their individual needs?
  Answer: Yes, I have worked with children with special needs and have experience adapting behavior intervention techniques to meet their individual needs. For example, I have modified visual schedules for children with autism and used sensory tools to help children with sensory processing difficulties regulate their emotions.
• 10. How do you handle conflict or disagreements with parents, teachers, or other professionals regarding a behavior intervention plan?
  Answer: I prioritize open and effective communication when collaborating with parents, teachers, and other professionals. If a conflict or disagreement arises, I first listen to their concerns and work towards finding a solution together that is in the best interest of the child. I also value and consider their perspectives while making any modifications to the behavior intervention plan.

Situational Questions

• 11. How would you handle a situation where a child refuses to participate in an activity during a session?
  Answer: I would first try to understand the reason for the child's refusal by asking open-ended questions and using active listening techniques. If their behavior is threatening or disruptive, I would use de-escalation techniques to help them regulate their emotions before discussing alternative activities or trying a different approach.
• 12. How do you handle aggressive behaviors from a child towards yourself or others?
  Answer: My first priority in any situation is to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. I would use de-escalation techniques to help the child regulate their emotions and ensure that they and others are safe. I would then discuss the behavior with the child, identify any triggers, and work on appropriate replacement behaviors.
• 13. How would you approach a situation where a parent or caregiver is not following the behavior intervention plan consistently?
  Answer: In this situation, I would first try to understand the reasons behind the inconsistency and provide additional support or resources if needed. I would also discuss the importance of consistency in implementing the behavior intervention plan and the potential impact on the child's progress.

Behavioral Questions

• 14. Can you give an example of a time when you had to adapt your approach when working with an individual with challenging behaviors?
  Answer: I worked with a child who had difficulty with transitions and would often have meltdowns when asked to move from one activity to another. I adapted my approach by providing visual cues and incorporating extra transition time to help the child prepare for the change gradually.
• 15. How do you prioritize and manage your workload when working with multiple individuals with behavior challenges?
  Answer: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and the needs of each individual. I also communicate effectively and collaborate with other professionals and caregivers involved in the individual's care to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach.
• 16. Can you describe a time when you had to think quickly to prevent a potentially escalating situation?
  Answer: During a session, a child with ADHD became agitated and was close to having a meltdown. I quickly used my training in de-escalation techniques to help the child regulate their emotions and prevented the situation from escalating further.
• 17. How do you handle receiving feedback or constructive criticism?
  Answer: I welcome feedback and view it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I listen attentively, take time to reflect on the feedback, and use it to make necessary changes in my approach or techniques.
• 18. Can you tell us about a time when you had to build rapport and trust with a challenging individual?
  Answer: I worked with a child who had a history of being uncooperative and resistant to therapy. I took the time to build a relationship with the child by incorporating their interests and preferences into our sessions. Over time, we were able to build trust, and the child became more motivated and cooperative during our sessions.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 19. How do you ensure cultural sensitivity when working with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds?
  Answer: I understand that every individual and family is unique, and I make an effort to learn about their cultural background and values. I also utilize resources and consult with other professionals from diverse backgrounds to ensure cultural sensitivity in my approach.
• 20. How do you handle situations where your personal beliefs or values may differ from those of the individual or their family?
  Answer: I always prioritize the individual's best interests and respect their beliefs and values. If a conflict arises, I communicate openly and professionally with the individual and their family to find a solution that meets their needs while staying within ethical and legal boundaries.