Behavioral Management
Behavioral Management for Parents and Guardians
Children and teens progress through multiple developmental phases, during which they develop their self-identity, explore the world around them, and quite often, test the boundaries of what they are and aren’t allowed to do. It’s not unusual for a child to throw a temper tantrum or for a teen to be out past curfew. But how can you know if problematic behaviors could be indicative of a disorder, and what can you do about it?
At Integrated Behavioral Health, our compassionate providers work closely with parents and guardians. We provide comprehensive assessments and individualized treatment plans, which may include behavioral management.
What is behavioral management therapy?
Behavioral management, also known as behavioral management therapy or behavioral therapy, is a way of encouraging children to adopt positive, desirable behaviors and reduce instances of negative, undesirable behaviors. It should be noted that the ultimate goal of behavioral management is to help the child become a well-adjusted, healthy individual who will go on to be a productive member of society. The goal is not to impose strict standards of perfection.
A provider may use different techniques that fall under the behavioral management umbrella. These can include the following:
- Positive Reinforcement – Positive reinforcement is used to encourage children to engage in desirable behaviors.
- Extinction – Sometimes, problematic behaviors are unintentionally reinforced by parents and caregivers. For example, a child who throws a temper tantrum receives attention, which serves as a reinforcement for the negative behavior. Extinction is a technique that involves removing the reinforcement in order to reduce the problematic behavior.
- Relationship Development Intervention – This technique involves helping children develop healthy social behaviors, such as turn taking.
How can behavioral management help my child?
Children who persistently engage in problematic, disruptive behaviors may have poorer mental health, emotional wellness, and quality of life as a result. As they grow older, they may find it more difficult to navigate social situations, participate in school, and later, adjust to adulthood. Behavioral management can help children overcome their difficulties so that they can truly enjoy life and become productive members of society.
At IBH, our providers often recommend behavioral management therapy for children and teens who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Is behavioral management helpful for children without an ASD?
Behavioral management therapies are commonly used to help children with ASD overcome challenging behaviors and thrive. Yet, this approach can also be helpful for children without an ASD. There are other disorders that can result in problematic behaviors, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorders, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).
However, the only way to determine whether behavioral management is appropriate for your child is to schedule an evaluation. The providers at IBH will thoroughly assess your child using a multidisciplinary approach, including discussing your concerns with you. We’ll then develop an integrated, holistic treatment plan that is suitable for your child’s unique needs.
How can I get help for my child?
At Integrated Behavioral Health, our non-judgmental, compassionate providers work closely with families to help them find positive solutions. If you’re struggling to help your child move past challenging behaviors, we can help. Contact us today to find an IBH location near you in Alabama.