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Professionals and caregivers who work with individuals on the autism spectrum whether as parents, educators, therapists, or support staff will likely encounter challenging behaviors at some point. These situations can be difficult to navigate and may evoke feelings of frustration or uncertainty.
However, it’s important to understand that behavior - even challenging behavior - is a form of communication and not simply random. When verbal expression is limited, individuals may act out to get what they want. By observing patterns and seeking to understand the underlying functions, it becomes possible to respond in a more effective and supportive way.
In this article, you will learn more about the nature of challenging behavior and strategies for managing it constructively.
What Is Challenging Behavior?
Challenging behavior means actions that disrupt learning, relationships, safety, or daily routines.
For many individuals with autism, these behaviors can include:
- Aggression toward others (hitting, kicking, biting)
- Self-injury (head banging, scratching, biting oneself)
- Severe tantrums or meltdowns
- Running away (elopement)
- Destructive behaviors (throwing objects, breaking things)
- Screaming, yelling
- Non-compliance or refusal
- Repetitive or ritualistic actions that can take over everyday life
It is to note that these behaviors are not “bad” or “naughty.” They are a response to something that isn’t working for the individual. It could be frustration, fear, unmet needs, or sensory overload.
As care providers, the key is to look beyond the behavior and figure out what function it is serving.
What Functions Do These Challenging Behaviors Serve?
Individuals on the autism spectrum often exhibit challenging behaviors when other ways of communicating aren’t working. Here are some common scenarios:
1. Communication Gaps
If the person can’t clearly express wants, needs, or discomfort, behavior becomes their “language.”
2. Sensory Processing Differences
Loud sounds, bright lights, scratchy clothing and crowded rooms can overwhelm an autistic person’s senses, triggering a meltdown.
3. Difficulty with Transitions or Changes
Many autistic individuals rely on predictable routines. A sudden change can feel terrifying or confusing.
4. Task Frustration
If an activity feels too complex, unclear or not meaningful, the person may try to escape through challenging behavior.
5. Need for Sensory Input
Sometimes behaviors like rocking, flapping, or head banging meet sensory needs.
6. Seeking Attention
A person may engage in behaviors that, even unintentionally, get a response from adults.
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
Before you can manage behavior, you need to understand it. That’s where a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) comes in. FBA helps you discover the function the behavior generally serves.
This is how you answer: what is the person generally trying to achieve or avoid when they exhibit this behavior?
An FBA involves:
- Defining the behavior clearly and specifically
- Observing when and where the behavior occurs
- Identifying triggers (what happens before the behavior?)
- Recording consequences (what happens after the behavior?)
- Looking for patterns
- Ultimately determining the function of the behavior
A quick look at common functions of challenging behavior:
Strategies That Work
Here’s how you may decide to approach challenging behaviors after conducting an FBA:
1. Provide Proactive Support
- Stick to predictable routines
- Prepare the individual for upcoming changes (visual schedules, verbal cues)
- Modify the environment to reduce sensory triggers
- Break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps
- Provide frequent breaks for regulation
- Offer choices to promote autonomy
- Teach coping skills like asking for a break or using calming tools
2. Teach Functional Communication
If a child screams for help, teach them to use a visual card or simple words (e.g., “Help, please”). Similarly, if they hit to escape a task, teach them to say, “All done” or “Break.”
Good communication can be verbal, signed, or through AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
3. Reinforce Prosocial Behaviors
Catch and reward moments of calm behavior, effective communication, or flexibility. Use:
- Verbal praise
- Small tangible rewards (stickers, favorite toy, extra playtime)
- High fives, hugs (if appropriate)
- Access to a preferred activity
4. Minimize Reinforcement of Challenging Behavior
Be mindful of how you respond to the challenging behavior. If it gets them a “payoff” (extra attention, escape from a task), it may happen more often. Instead:
- Stay calm and neutral
- Avoid giving in to escape-driven behaviors
- Provide attention for prosocial behaviors, not challenging ones
5. Meet Sensory Needs in Healthy Ways
Work with an OT to develop a sensory plan that may include:
- Fidget toys
- Weighted items
- Movement breaks
- Noise-cancelling headphones
The goal is to provide effective and acceptable ways to meet these needs, so they don’t resort to disruptive behaviors.
When to Seek Professional Help?
Getting professional help can make a big difference for the individual and for you. Here are some signs that it’s time to reach out for extra support:
1. The behavior is dangerous
If the person is hurting themselves, others, or damaging things, you need expert help to keep everyone safe.
2. The behavior is getting worse
If the behavior is happening more often or is becoming more intense, it’s best to get help early before it gets harder to manage.
3. You don’t know why it’s happening
If you’ve tried to figure it out but can’t tell what’s triggering the behavior, a professional can help with a full assessment.
4. You’re unsure what to do
If you’re stuck, a specialist can create a plan that’s right for the person you’re supporting.
5. You feel stressed or burned out
It’s hard work caring for someone with challenging behavior. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, it’s time to ask for help. Support is out there.
Who Can Help?
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
- Occupational Therapists (OTs)
- Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
- Psychologists or counselors
Conclusion
Understanding and managing challenging behavior takes time, patience, and collaboration. There is no “one size fits all.” But when you use the right tools and stay consistent, you’ll start to see beneficial change.
Behind every behavior is a person doing their best to communicate. When you listen to that message with compassion and curiosity, you open the door to real progress.