Resources for Addressing Challenging Behaviors

As information consumers surfing the internet, we often find ourselves inundated with programs and treatments that claim to be effective, even when there is no scientific evidence behind the claims. Evidence-based practices (EBPs) on the other hand, are interventions that have been shown to be effective based on the scientific literature. So far, the National Professional Development Center (NPDC) has identified 27 EBPs for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

This month, OAR highlights four resources that can assist parents, educators, and professionals in implementing some of those EBPs in order to address challenging behaviors.

 

FUNCTIONAL BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT: IDENTIFYING THE REASONS FOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR AND DEVELOPING A BEHAVIOR PLAN

Created for educators, this two-hour module “explores the basic principles of behavior and the importance of discovering the reasons that students engage in problem behavior.” Functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) can be used for various challenging behaviors, like refusing to do work or moving around the classroom while the teacher is instructing the class. The module covers how to design, implement, and evaluate an FBA intervention using interactive tools such as quiz questions, videos, and case-based scenarios to ensure that it is being conducted properly. This resource is helpful for educators new to the process and those looking for a refresher.

EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE BRIEF: PARENT-IMPLEMENTED INTERVENTION

Parent-implemented intervention is typically used for children with ASD from ages 2 to 9. The intervention typically takes place in the home and can improve skills in the areas of communication, compliance, and eating and reduce aggressive and disruptive behavior. Parents work with a practitioner to develop a plan tailored to their family, and then determine goals, create an intervention plan, train, implement the plan, and monitor progress. This intervention technique can be used to improve a wide variety of skills and reduce interfering behaviors.

This evidence-based practice brief on parent-implemented intervention provides an overview of the intervention (what it is, who it can be used with, what skills it has been used with, settings for instruction, etc.), steps for implementation, and forms and data sheets for use in implementation. Parents will find the guide comprehensive and user-friendly.

VCU AUTISM CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE RESOURCES

The VCU Autism Center for Excellence provides a multitude of resources for EBP education, including courses, webcasts, seminars, how-to videos, and fact sheets. Whether you are a parent, educator, or professional supporting someone with ASD, you’ll be able to find a resource that fits your needs and available time.

AFIRM EBP MODULES

These 16 modules are available to anyone who wants to learn about planning, using, and monitoring an EBP intervention. Modules take anywhere from one and a half to three hours to complete and explain techniques like antecedent-based intervention, exercise, reinforcement, and more.