Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Positive behavior support: recognize and support the positive behaviors that WE want

The simplest way to increase the behaviors we want to see, is through REINFORCEMENT!  It is powerful and motivating to all of us, especially individuals with ASD (autism spectrum disorder). So,  please USE and ABUSE it! There are many ways to determine what is highly reinforcing and motivating to each individual.  Children nor adults do not "grow out" of needing reinforcements! We as adults need reinforcement.  For some of us, reinforcement is as simple as giving eye contact and a smile, but usually to those individuals with ASD, this is not a motivator.  You must understand the 4 functions of behavior to understand WHY the behavior is happening again and again.