Why do a BCA?

Behavior chain analysis (BCA) is integral to DBT since it provides a method of behavioral assessment, most often for target behaviors, which are most often self-destructive behaviors. An assumption within DBT is no learning occurs when clients engage in target behaviors. BCAs provide a method of assessment about the chain of experience leading up to the target behavior.  There are vulnerability factors present prior to the prompting event. There consequences of the behavior that are often environmental reinforcers that will increase likelihood the behavior will occur again. Clients can use the BCA to see decision points along the way where various skills could have been used when they apply solution analysis.

The function of BCA is assessment and it can be uncomfortable to talk about target behaviors because they often bring up shame for the client. When a client experiences a BCA as aversive, it is important to provide validation and reorient the client to the purpose of chain analysis. It is helpful in treatment when BCAs are approached collaboratively. This helps to ensure effective learning through assessment and modeling. Experienced therapists will make use of commitment strategies to bring clients to a point where they recognize they want to do the BCA because they see the value in it.  A goal in treatment is for clients to internalize the format of the BCA and be able to work through the process quickly when needed, even without access to a BCA form. 

All Therapists are Jerks, and . . .: Behavioral Chain Analysis (libsyn.com)