Behavioural and family systems interventions in developmental disability: towards a contemporary and integrative approach

Abstract

While behavioural intervention is effective in the treatment of challenging behaviour, in developmental disability it can have significant limitations in the family setting. Families can sometimes find it difficult to make lifecycle transitions or respond to other stressful life events and become stuck in patterns of interaction that include the presenting behaviour. The aim of this paper is to present a theoretical and working model of intervention that integrates more contemporary behavioural and systemic orientations. Four stages for intervention are provided, each consisting of practical guidelines for the clinician. Three detailed case studies are also included.