How to Support Neurodivergent & Trauma-Affected Individuals for Parents, Teachers and Carers

Think about the last time you saw a behavior that stood out to you.
Maybe a child flapping their hands, someone repeating a phrase, or a person refusing to follow an instruction. Did you immediately see that behavior as a problem to be fixed?

For years, behaviorist models have focused on modifying behaviors—rewarding the “good” and discouraging the “bad.” But what if some of the behaviors we try to change are actually essential coping strategies?

In this episode, host Andy Baker explores the difference between adaptive and maladaptive behaviors, why traditional approaches to behavior management can do more harm than good, and how we can shift toward a neurodiverse-affirming, person-centered approach that truly supports those we care for.

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Key Messages from This Episode:

🧠 Behavior Is Communication – Many so-called “challenging” behaviors are actually adaptive strategies for coping, self-regulating, or communicating unmet needs.

💬 Traditional Behaviorist Approaches Can Be Harmful – Punishing or suppressing behaviors without understanding their function can lead to anxiety, distress, and learned helplessness.

⚖ Compliance Isn’t the Goal—Connection Is – Instead of forcing compliance, we should be supporting autonomy, self-regulation, and emotional well-being.

🌍 We All Have Biases – Some behaviors we try to “correct” (like avoiding eye contact or stimming) aren’t actually harmful—they just don’t fit societal norms.

🔍 Focus on Functional Behavior – Ask “What need is this behavior fulfilling?” instead of “How do I stop it?”.

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📌 Key Timestamps:

📌 [00:00] – Introduction: Why our approach to behavior needs to change
📌 [00:20] – Understanding adaptive vs. maladaptive behavior
📌 [00:52] – Sponsor: Carers Card UK – Support & recognition for carers
📌 [02:13] – Why traditional behavior management is outdated
📌 [03:09] – The problem with focusing on behavior modification
📌 [06:22] – Recognizing functional behavior vs. challenging behavior
📌 [10:00] – Why suppression of behaviors can do more harm than good
📌 [12:08] – Supporting autonomy and self-regulation over compliance
📌 [16:49] – Rethinking social norms: What is truly harmful vs. just different?
📌 [17:09] – Final reflections: Understanding before correcting

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🎓 Looking for Training in Behavior Support & Neurodiversity?

Able Training offers expert-led courses on behavior management, de-escalation, and trauma-informed care for professionals, carers, and educators.

📞 Contact us today: AbleTraining.co.uk
🚀 Book your course now and enhance your understanding of behavior!