Options for problem behaviors

[Guest guest]

A close friend of mine needs a " second opinion. " Her son is now 10. It has

been 8 years since they started using ABA. This family has worked with a

few different BCBAs in our area over the years, but their son continues to

have very challenging behaviors, worse now because of his size and strength.

The behaviors include SIB (violent head-banging), biting, hitting, kicking,

and pulling hair.

He has received (and currently receives) around 35 hours per week in an ABA

day treatment program and an additional 5-15 hours per week from therapists

in their home. Mom is very well trained, but can't do more than she is now.

The family is at the point of considering a residential program, but they

have concerns about that option too. It's clear they need to change what

they are doing, since he is failing to make any progress in either skill

acquisition or reduction of problem behaviors.

The family is willing to consider moving, placing their son out-of-state, or

working with out-of-state consultants. If this were your client or child,

what would you recommend???

Thanks,

Geraldine