Over the weekend I was thinking about behaviours, and I do a lot of people watching and I was watching a couple having an argument.
I could not hear what was being said but their body language was telling me so much.
It go me thinking about
1 - we can’t have a thought without giving a physical response
2- we all behaviour differently but we are all trying to say something, likes dislikes
We are in pain.
Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviours in Autism
Do you know what’s behind challenging behaviours?
In my experience, it’s often a way for individuals, especially those who are nonverbal, to communicate unmet needs, discomfort, or pain.
When I encounter a challenging behaviour, or when someone with autism is in crisis, I use the S.E.A.T. method to understand and address the issue:
S.E.A.T. Framework:
Sensory: Is there sensory overload (too noisy, too bright)?
Escape: Is the person trying to avoid a task or situation?
Attention: Are they seeking attention?
Tangible: Are they trying to obtain a specific item or comfort object?
Also, consider:
Physical Issues: Pain or discomfort?
Cognitive Factors: Difficulty understanding or processing information?
Emotional/Psychological Issues: Stress or anxiety?
Environmental/Social Factors: Overwhelming surroundings or social dynamics?
Communication Needs: Struggling to express needs or feelings?
Key Strategies:
Change the Environment: Modify surroundings to reduce triggers.
Teach Replacement Skills: Help them learn alternative ways to communicate their needs.
Understand Triggers: Identify and address specific events that precede behaviours.
Ready to transform how you manage challenging behaviours in autism?
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