Restrictive Behavior Management Practices: History, Considerations, and Alternatives

Description

Restrictive behaviour management practices (RBMPs) are usually considered high risk, emergency procedures, that are used in response to perceived violent and dangerous situations. Contemporary use of RBMPs for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities has been controversial, primarily due to the ethical, legal, and safety concerns that have arisen historically and continue to exist regarding (a) the impingement on an individual’s personal rights and freedoms, (b) physical health risks, and (c) potential for long term psychological harm or trauma. This presentation focuses on the history of RBMPs, types of RBMPs commonly used to manage dangerous behaviour, implications of these practices, and practical considerations for when the use of RBMPs cannot be avoided. Finally, alternatives to RBMPs are discussed, including strategies to reduce restraint procedures, methods to prevent crisis situations safely, and the implications of RBMP alternatives on an individual’s long-term health.

About the Speaker

Dr. Saini is an Associate Professor and doctoral level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) at Brock University. He specializes in experimental and behavioral psychology, with an emphasis on translational research. He has over 15 years of experience working as a behavioral scientist and has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers in over 10 different behavioral and/or psychology journals. Dr. Saini was the 2021 recipient of the Outstanding Research Award from the Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis.