What happens before

What happens to set off the problem behaviour? Often it’s when someone…

• Directs them to start or continue with a disliked task
  Directs individual to start or continue with a non-preferred task or something that the individual finds difficult or uncomfortable.
• Directs them to stop a liked task
  Asks them to stop an enjoyable activity or task.
• Does not respond to their approach
  Individual does not respond to another person’s approach and continues with the behaviour or activity e.g. does not notice them trying to gain attention, does not stop talking to another person when approached.
• Does not respond to their request
  Individual does not respond to another person’s request e.g. does not answer a question or join in with an activity.
• Gives a physical prompt
  Individual is given a physical guide to complete a task or reengage with an activity e.g. touches person, or taps them on their arm or shoulder to gain their attention or guides their hand towards the task.
• Gives a verbal direction or request
  Somebody says a direction or request to the individual.  This may be directly to the individual or to a group of people.
• Gives verbal praise
  Verbally praises the person for something, either about the person themselves or something they have said or done e.g. “good job” or “you did really well in that sport lesson”.  This may be directly to the individual or to the whole class.
• Gives a verbal reminder
  Somebody reminds the individual of something by saying it to them e.g. “it’s time to get in the car”, “go back to class”, “brush your teeth”, “don’t forget to pack your lunch”.  This may be directly to the individual or to a group of people.
• Gives a verbal reprimand
  Tells individual off, possibly for doing something or saying something .
• Makes an unexpected noise or sound
  Person or people nearby make sudden noise or sound such as a hand clap or shouting .
• Moves away
  Moves away from the person intentionally or unintentionally.
• Moves closer
  Moves closer to the person intentionally or unintentionally.
• Refuses a request
  Refuses to do something or let the person do something.