A key behaviour support question is 'Do I like this person?
Andy McDonnell
![Andy McDonnell]()
Andy McDonnell
Professor of Autism Studies, Birmingham City University, Clinical Psychologist at Studio3 Training Systems
How often have you met with teachers or support staff and although they are concerned about a persons challenging behaviour, you wonder does this person actually like them? We are trained to be 'objective' but, I often find that a small minority of people just cannot connect with the individual they are supporting. In these circumstances creating honest dialogue is the best way forward. You cannot write a support plan to make someone like an individual!!
independent practitioner for adults on the autism spectrum at araucaria autism, mentoring, support with mental health issues, daily living skills, also one off appointments.
6yReally important is do they like me because if someone doesn't like the way that I support them and if I cannot change to become what they need they are much better finding someone who they have a rapport with
CBP (Certified Business Psychologist with the ABP)
6yAh very often see them Andy McDonnell. Why we discuss as a behaviour problem instead of a way of communication or interaction or the need of the child/young person. It is not behaviour problem It is a way to be recognised and understood.
B.Phil. Sp. Ed. (Autism); Director/Founder PTA CIC; Co-Founder/Co-Director ASC Advocacy Ltd
6yIn six years of volunteering with children and young people with autism I have only twice found it difficult not to form a connection to work with. PDA-subliminal in both cases. However, I lately met one of these children, now teenager, and although the subliminal is still there, I had a glimmer of connectivity. Hard-going though. Even for me, oft described as being able to break through really locked-in children or yp. Nothing particularly special about me other than I'm an autism Mama with an elaborate hairstyle that encourages even non-verbal people to express. Joking aside though, I can understand how a like-ability factor on both sides is essential to delivering effective behaviour support.
Professor of Autism Studies, Birmingham City University, Clinical Psychologist at Studio3 Training Systems
6yAny sensible behaviour specialist should ask it !!!!!!
Research Director: Senior Research Fellow
6yAny sensible plan will disregard this.