herts.csf specialist advisory service - autism behaviour as communication difficulties in...

Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism

Behaviour as communication

• Difficulties in understanding and expressing their needs and desires.

• Communicate in idiosyncratic ways

• May misunderstand and may be misunderstood - leading to frustration, aggression, destruction and self injury


Behaviour serves as a function

• Creating order - e.g. ritualistic behaviour.

• Stress relief- e.g. time alone.

• Self stimulating - e.g. rocking, calming

• Pain relief - e.g. hitting, self biting.

• Compensating for sensory issues - e.g. spinning


Behaviour happens in a context

• Environment is important – where, when how often , who with?

• Sensory environment – e.g. shops, dinner time.

• Structure of the environment

• Social environment

• Language environment


Behaviour as symptoms

• Difficulties in communication, interaction and flexible thinking

• Sensory issues

• Stress and anxiety

• Boredom

• Illness


What factors promote positive behaviour?

• Calm, structured environment

• Warnings of change

• Clear rules and expectations

• Clear, simple, unambiguous language

• Visually supported communication


.

• Awareness of individual sensory sensitivities.

• Activities to meet sensory needs

• Use of individual special interests

• Stress management strategies

• Social stories.


References• Attwood, T. (1993) Why does Chris do that? Stephen Austin and Sons ltd. Hertford• Clements, J. and Martin, N. (2002) Assessing the

behaviours regarded as problematic for people with developmental disabilities. London: Jessica Kingsley

• Clements, J. and Zarkowska, E. (2001) Behavioural Concerns and Autistic Disorders, London: Jessica Kingsley


• Dickinson, P. and Hannah L. (2005) It Can Get Better. NAS

• Cumine, V. Leach, J. & Stevenson, G. (1998) Asperger’s Syndrome - a Practical guide for teachers. London: ,David Fulton

• Jordan, R. & Powell, S. (1995) John Wiley & Sons

• Whitaker, P. (2001)Challenging Behaviour and autism. NAS

herts.csf specialist advisory service - autism behaviour as communication difficulties in...

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