Section G Getting it right

Why might behaviour described as challenging develop?

Many children with learning disabilities, autism or both do not develop communication and social skills the same way as their peers. They have the same needs, plus additional needs, but fewer ways of getting those needs met.

People with learning disabilities sometimes have very little choice or control over their lives. Challenging behaviour can be an effective way of influencing what happens to them, by bringing people to them, making them go away, getting something they want or avoiding something.

Challenging behaviour may also be a response to negative feelings such as boredom or anxiety. Some behaviours can be entertaining or calming for the person. People might also experience their senses in different ways, so behave in ways that give them a stronger or weaker sensory feedback.