The Prevention and Treatment of Problem Behavior

Presented by:
Bridget Taylor, Psy.D., BCBA

Co-sponsored by:
The Consortium for the Advancement of Child Health–Simon Fraser University &
British Columbia Association for Behaviour Analysis

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The Prevention and Treatment of Problem Behavior

Children with autism can present challenging behavior.  For example, it is not uncommon for an individual with autism to engage in high rates of repetitive behavior, tantrum in the presence of demands, or engage in aggression or self injury when denied access to preferred activities. Problem behavior can significantly interfere with and limit educational and social opportunities, negatively impact family functioning, and if not addressed can limit overall community integration experiences. This talk will provide an overview of the potential reasons why problem behavior exists, assessment procedures, innovative interventions that match treatment to function, and practical strategies parents and teachers can implement to prevent the development of problem behavior.  Case examples will be presented through lecture and videotapes to illustrate assessment, intervention and database outcomes.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the potential functions of problem behavior
2. Identify environmental contexts that may occasion problem behavior
3. Identify skill deficits that may occasion problem behavior
4. Identify assessment procedures to match treatment to the function of problem behavior
5. Identify ways to prevent the development of behavior problems

About the Presenter:

Dr. Bridget A. Taylor is co-founder and Executive Director of Alpine Learning Group. She has specialized in the education and treatment of children with autism for the past twenty-five years. She holds a Doctorate of Psychology from Rutgers University, and received her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Columbia University. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Psychologist. Dr. Taylor is active in the autism research community and has published numerous articles on effective interventions for autism.