Addressing Repetitive Behaviors

Trying to break a loved one or client from engaging in repetitive behavior at inappropriate times? Do they have a passion or fixation that just won't seem to go away? There's a Good Karma App (or two!) for that:

Using Scene Speak to create social stories about when it is appropriate to engage in certain behaviors (this can work for ANY behavior, especially some that may come with puberty) or play with certain toys can be helpful. Rather than focus on why it's inappropriate, try flipping it to validate the function of the behavior (even if we cannot understand, every behavior has a purpose, and it is meaningful to our loved ones), then shape it into something more positive, appropriate, or productive. 

Create VSDs for the social story that will be appropriate for the book you wish to create.

Using the preferred object/behavior to gain attention and facilitate interest in the social story can be helpful.

Whenever possible, try to validate the individual's feelings. Every behavior has a purpose, even if that purpose is unknown.

Set clear parameters when it comes to how long, how frequent, etc. the individual is premitted to freely engage in the activity.

It may also be helpful if the individual is permitted to engage in the behavior/play with the toy/etc. in controlled measures of time. This will help them satisfy the need, but also keep the behavior within tangible parameters so that there is anticipation of the event, a set amount of time to engage in the activity, and a closed end to the event. Scheduling in this type of "break" for the individual can help alleviate anxieties for them and save you from constantly redirecting the behavior. Our Visual Schedule Planner app is great in this capacity. Maybe when your loved one/client gets off the bus/arrives home, they can have a 30 minute block of time scheduled in to engage in whatever activity they choose (think VERY unstructured free time!). 

Add time for the behavior/activity by creating an event to add to the individual's daily schedule.

By creating a set time for the activity, the individual has something to look forward to, while also understanding that the activity is closed-ended.

We may not always understand the "why" behind a behavior or activity, but there are creative ways to address behaviors that respect the individual's feelings while also maintaining order and focus throughout the rest of the day.