Working in the field means encountering moments of client resistance, task refusal, or behavioral escalation. Knowing how to respond calmly, professionally, and ethically is essential for keeping sessions safe and therapeutic.
1. Re-Evaluate Antecedents
Before reacting to resistance, check the environment and antecedent conditions:
- Is the task demand too difficult or poorly explained?
- Is the client fatigued, hungry, or experiencing sensory overload?
- Adjusting the antecedent (e.g., modifying task difficulty or offering a sensory break) is often faster and more effective than trying to force compliance.
2. Offer Controlled Choices
Empower the client by providing structured, low-stakes choices that restore a sense of autonomy. For example: “We need to practice writing numbers. Do you want to use the blue marker or the green marker first?” or “Do you want to sit at the table or on the floor rug for this activity?”
3. Maintain Safety and Follow Protocol
If a full behavioral escalation or tantrum occurs:
- Strictly follow the client’s specific Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
- Never use instructional control to punish behavior or express frustration.
- Instead, remain calm, ensure environmental safety, wait for behavioral calm, prompt safer alternative responses, and heavily reinforce engagement once cooperation resumes.