Behavior management is a great tool to help family members manage challenging or problematic behaviors. While it is essential to understand that behaviors can be positive or negative, specific behaviors that stem from limitations of developmental disabilities can be controlled or reduced by a person-centered behavior support plan. A behavior plan aims to provide the family with a prescription for treatment with proactive and reactive strategies while teaching the person how to display appropriate positive behavior. It may appear to be a simple task of teaching a child or adult right and wrong. However, the same task may become difficult for a person with disabilities, depending on their learning capabilities. In facilitating the task, the person should become more independent through repetition and verbal praise. Similarly, the behavior plan aims to promote positive behavior and independence through an effective learning environment. In addition, implementing constant redirection from negative behaviors allow the person to self-correct from inappropriate behaviors with positive reinforcement.
Within a domestic environment, people are usually accustomed to their surroundings and unable to realize the immediate consequences of problematic behavior. For example, a person has direct access to items of preference; therefore, any form of discipline may not significantly affect behavior frequency. Consequently, the individual may not respond to specific requests or demands without barriers to immediate gratification. In the environment, social expectations are not understood initially, leading to impulse control or oppositional behaviors. For these reasons, family members must become familiar with behavior management techniques and therapeutic strategies. Behavior training starts at home, and lack of training can have a residual effect on conduct in the community, school, and during medical appointments/evaluations.
Family members can use formal behavior training to redirect problem behaviors and then counsel the person on why the behavior was inappropriate. In addition, the family member can also incorporate a replacement behavior consisting of a preferred activity which allows the person to refocus. If the person cannot speak or communicate, the family member can communicate through a picture exchange communication system, visuals, signs, gestures, or demonstrations by modeling appropriate behavior. Choices or alternative activities should also be provided to avoid non-compliant behaviors resulting from frustration. The family member can learn how to teach the person coping techniques with simple, practical exercises. A quiet area should also be identified and provided for the individual for de-escalation during crisis periods. Finally, family members must initiate boundaries with a tolerance limit and how behaviors will be addressed and managed.
Family members must understand that it is normal for individuals to display inappropriate behaviors in a place they feel comfortable in, such as the home. Self-expression is essential in development, whether for a child or an adult. It is vital to promote positive reinforcement to cultivate consistent progress.
