Why do people do the things that they do?

When trying to understand and change inappropriate behavior, it is important for us to identify ‘WHY’ the behavior may occur. Often, people behavior in certain ways to obtain attention (positive and/or negative), gain access to tangibles or preferred activities, to avoid/escape a stimulus, or the behavior may result from sensory seeking/overstimulation.

Once we determine the WHY, or the function of behavior, then we can be intentional in taking steps to change the specific behavior.