Staff perceptions of adolescent behaviour problems

Staff in three residential units completed a 25 item behaviour problem questionnaire. From analysis of questionnaires a rank order of behaviours according to rated severity was made for each Unit. Comparisons of ranking were made between the Units and, from factor analysis, perceptions of these items of behaviour by staff in the three Units were studied. We were able to establish three hypotheses regarding the severity of problem behaviours and their perceptions by staff. We suggest that staff support has a major function in influencing them.