Why can disorders like autism and Alzheimer's make identifying the function of a behavior difficult?

The correct choice highlights that individuals with disorders such as autism and Alzheimer's may exhibit behaviors that differ significantly from those of individuals without these diagnoses. This difference can create challenges in identifying the underlying reasons or functions for certain behaviors.

For instance, a person with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors or have difficulty with social communication, making it less clear why they may be acting in a particular way when only looking at those behaviors on the surface. In cases of Alzheimer's, cognitive decline can affect the person's ability to communicate their needs and desires, further obscuring the function of their behavior.

These factors can lead to misconceptions about what is motivating the behavior, as the typical markers that practitioners might rely on for understanding function may not be present or are expressed differently in these populations. Recognizing how these diagnoses influence behavior helps ensure that support plans are appropriately tailored to meet the individual’s needs.