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Functional properties of behaviour problems depending on level of intellectual disability
K Medeiros1, J Rojahn, L L Moore
1Applied Developmental Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA.
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research : JIDR
|March 8, 2013
Summary
Behavioral interventions for intellectual disabilities (ID) vary by ID severity. Self-injurious behavior (SIB) in severe ID is linked to escaping demands or gaining items, while aggression and stereotypy serve multiple functions across ID levels.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Behavioral problems are prevalent in individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID), particularly in severe cases.
- Understanding the function of these behaviors is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the level of intellectual disability and the functional profile of aggression, stereotypy, and self-injurious behavior (SIB).
Main Methods:
- The study utilized the Questions about Behavioural Function (QABF) tool.
- QABF was completed by two staff members at two time points for 115 adults with varying levels of ID.
Main Results:
- A differential relationship exists between behavior functions and ID level.
- Self-injurious behavior (SIB) was more frequently associated with escaping social demands and accessing tangible items as intellectual functioning declined.
- Aggressive and stereotypic behaviors were often identified as serving multiple functions across all levels of functioning.
Conclusions:
- The findings highlight that the functions of behavior problems are not uniform across all individuals with ID.
- Intervention strategies should consider the specific behavioral functions and the individual's level of intellectual disability.
Keywords:
aggressive behaviourbehaviour problemschallenging behaviourintellectual disabilitiesself-injurious behaviourstereotypic behaviourMore Related Videos
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