1. Identify types of challenging behaviour.
There are many types of behaviour that can be described as challenging. Examples of these include: self-injury (eg head banging, self-biting, skin picking) physical aggression or violent behaviour (eg punching, scratching, kicking, biting, pulling hair) verbal aggression (eg threats, insults, excessive swearing) disruption and destruction of property or the environment (eg ripping clothes, breaking windows or furniture) racist or sexist behaviour. stereotyped behaviours (eg rocking, spinning, hand flapping) inappropriate or unacceptable sexual behaviour (eg masturbating in public, touching others inappropriately or showing pornography) smearing and urination (eg smearing faeces, urinating in inappropriate places) stealing (eg taking possessions/food that do not belong to the individual) manipulative, deceitful and non-compliant behaviour (eg refusing to move, refusing to engage in an activity despite being able, telling lies) absconding (eg leaving school/home/residential service without permission).
3. Explain the steps that are taken to maintain the dignity of and respect for an individual when responding to an incident of challenging behaviour. Children must always be treated with dignity and respect with. This may be difficult when their behaviour is threatening to their peers or members of staff, however it is essential to remember that it’s the behaviour that is adverse and not the YP. When challenging the behaviour it is important to disapprove of the negative behaviour, not the individual. Should the situation require reactive strategies, it is important to uphold best practise and continue to treat the YP in a child centred way, according to their placement plan, risk assessment and positive handling plan, paying attention to the YP faith, beliefs, culture while maintaining dignity. For example, when holding a YP, ensuring that the hold is not intrusive, especially to private parts of the body. Should the YP clothes ride up, for staff to inform the YP that they are about to adjust their clothing. It is important to maintain dignity and respect when recording the incident. Not using a derogatory tone when referring to the YP, instead recording in a way that describes the negative behaviour displayed by the YP.
