Understanding Challenging Behavior and Encouraging Cooperation

Learning Objectives:

Describe behavior as a form of communication and explain how it serves a specific function for the individual.

Identify common patterns and stages of escalating behavior, including early signs of frustration.

Recognize the role of antecedents (what happens before a behavior) and how modifying them can prevent challenging behaviors.

Apply practical communication strategies that support regulation and reduce frustration for the child.

Understand the functions of behavior and the synthesis of those functions to better understand the full picture of what a child might need at a given time.

Use reinforcement techniques to increase cooperation and teach skills.

Develop a mindset focused on understanding, prevention, skill-building, and creating supportive environments across settings.