Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet provide an introduction to why children and adults with learning disabilities may display challenging behaviour, and what you can do about it.
‘Understanding Challenging Behaviour: Part 1’ is the first information sheet in this series. It is recommended that it is read alongside ‘Finding the Reasons for Challenging Behaviour: Part 2’ and ‘Positive Behaviour Support Planning: Part 3’ (see links at bottom of page)
Download: Understanding challenging behaviour – part 1
Children and adults with learning disabilities may display ‘‘problem’’ or ‘‘unusual’’ behaviours. These can include:
It can be stressful, upsetting and impact on the lives of the whole family.
There is always a reason for challenging behaviour. In many cases, it’s a way for a person to control what is going on around them and to get their needs met. They also might be ill or in pain, or want to get something. It’s important to understand the reasons behind challenging behaviour for change to happen!
There is no quick fix. Having said that, there is a lot that can be done to prevent or reduce challenging behaviour:
Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet explain that all behaviour happens for a reason. This page introduces the different stages of behaviour and how a functional assessment can identify the exact causes of a person’s behaviour.
This page describes what is a Behaviour Support Plan, and how to create one. Our quick read summary and downloadable information sheet provide eight key steps to making a plan, including proactive than reactive strategies.
