Leanne Tran Psychology
From a positive behaviour support (PBS) perspective, there are several problems associated with using punishment as a method of behaviour management. Here are some of the key problems with using punishment:
- Does not address underlying causes: Punishment focuses on suppressing or eliminating unwanted behaviour without addressing the underlying reasons why the behaviour is occurring. Without understanding the function or purpose of the behaviour, punishment may be ineffective in promoting long-term behaviour change.
- May increase resistance and aggression: Punishment can lead to increased resistance, defiance, or aggression in individuals, especially if it is perceived as unfair or arbitrary. Rather than promoting cooperation and positive behaviour, punishment may provoke negative reactions and escalate conflicts.
- Does not teach alternative skills: Punishment does not teach individuals more adaptive or appropriate ways of meeting their needs or achieving their goals. Instead of teaching problem-solving skills or alternative coping strategies, punishment simply suppresses the behaviour temporarily without addressing the root causes.
- May damage relationships: Punishment can strain relationships between individuals and caregivers, educators, or support staff. It may erode trust, communication, and mutual respect, leading to a breakdown in the therapeutic or supportive relationship.
- May lead to negative side effects: Punishment can have unintended negative side effects, such as increased anxiety, low self-esteem, or learned helplessness in individuals. It may also reinforce negative beliefs about oneself or others, perpetuating a cycle of negative behaviour.
- May not be sustainable or practical: Punishment often requires constant monitoring and enforcement, which may not be sustainable or practical in all settings. It may also create a punitive atmosphere that is unpleasant or aversive for individuals and caregivers alike.
So what can you do instead? Use reactive strategies that are planned. Here’s a quick guide how:
Reactive strategies designed to keep people safe focus on maintaining safety and preventing harm in response to challenging behaviours, rather than using punishment or punitive measures. These strategies are particularly important when dealing with individuals who may exhibit aggressive, self-injurious, or dangerous behaviours, such as children with ADHD or other behavioural challenges. Here’s an explanation of how to use reactive safety strategies effectively:
- Assess the situation: When faced with a challenging behaviour, the first step is to assess the situation calmly and objectively. Determine the potential risks and safety concerns involved, both for the individual exhibiting the behaviour and for others in the environment.
- Stay calm and composed: It’s essential to remain calm and composed when responding to challenging behaviours. Avoid escalating the situation with a reactive or emotional response. Take deep breaths and focus on maintaining a sense of control and safety.
- Implement safety protocols: Have clear safety protocols in place to address potential risks and emergencies. This may include procedures for de-escalating conflicts, safely restraining individuals if necessary, and seeking medical attention in case of injury.
- Use redirection and distraction: Redirecting attention away from the triggering stimulus or offering alternative activities can help defuse tense situations and prevent escalation. Redirect the individual’s focus to a calming or engaging activity to help them regulate their emotions and behaviour.
- Provide a safe environment: Create a safe and supportive environment that minimizes potential hazards and triggers for challenging behaviours. Remove or modify environmental factors that may contribute to stress or agitation, such as loud noises, crowded spaces, or overstimulation.
- Use physical intervention as a last resort: If the situation escalates and there is an imminent risk of harm, physical intervention may be necessary to ensure safety. However, physical intervention should only be used as a last resort and in accordance with established safety protocols. Use the least restrictive and least intrusive intervention possible to maintain safety while respecting the individual’s dignity and autonomy.
- Seek professional support: If challenging behaviours persist despite proactive efforts to maintain safety, seek professional support from healthcare providers, therapists, or behaviour specialists. They can offer additional guidance, resources, and interventions to address underlying issues and promote positive behaviour change.
- Review and debrief: After the incident has been resolved, take the time to review and debrief with relevant stakeholders, such as caregivers, educators, or support staff. Identify what worked well and what could be improved for future situations. Use this feedback to refine safety protocols and proactive strategies moving forward.
By prioritizing safety and employing proactive, non-punitive approaches to managing challenging behaviours, individuals and caregivers can create a supportive and secure environment that promotes positive outcomes and enhances overall well-being.
