Inappropriate Behaviour

It is important to remember that punishment is unlikely to be effective in changing your student’s behaviour. While it is useful to tell a person with ASD what not to do, it is equally important to teach the appropriate behaviour.

If inappropriate behaviour has occurred, it is important to explain clearly why the behaviour is not acceptable. Give the student a way to know when and where that behaviour is acceptable, rather than forbidding it outright. It can be very helpful to teach the student that certain behaviours (such as masturbation) are acceptable in a private place, such as their bedroom.

Students may benefit from lessons which assist them to develop an understanding of which places are private and which places are public.

Remember that behaviour is purposeful. Address the reason for the behaviour and teach an alternative, appropriate behaviour. For more information on how to do this, see the section on behaviour support.