Case Study: Develop an Intervention Plan
Sample Solution
Case Study: Matt
Brief Description of the Student
Matt is a 7-year-old student in the second grade. He is a bright and energetic child who loves to learn. However, Matt also has difficulty regulating his sensory needs. He often seeks out sensory stimulation in inappropriate ways, such as making loud noises, banging on his desk, or throwing objects.
Student's Classroom Setting
Matt's classroom is a typical second-grade classroom with 25 students. The classroom is brightly lit and has a variety of materials and activities for students to choose from.
ABC Recording Chart
| Antecedent | Behavior | Consequent |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher asks Matt to sit down during circle time | Matt throws a chair | Teacher sends Matt to the principal's office |
| Matt is asked to complete a worksheet | Matt starts making loud noises | Teacher gives Matt a warning |
| Matt is lining up to go to recess | Matt starts banging on his desk | Teacher takes Matt out of the line |
Function of Challenging Behavior
Matt's challenging behavior is a way for him to seek out sensory stimulation. When he is feeling overwhelmed or bored, he engages in behaviors that provide him with the sensory input he needs.
Rationale for Selecting Function of Challenging Behavior
The ABC recording chart shows that Matt's challenging behavior typically occurs after he is asked to do something that he finds difficult or boring. This suggests that his behavior is a way for him to avoid these tasks. Additionally, Matt's behavior often involves making loud noises or banging on objects. This suggests that he is seeking out sensory stimulation.
Intervention Plan
Goals of Intervention
- Matt will be able to identify his sensory needs.
- Matt will be able to request sensory breaks when he is feeling overwhelmed.
- Matt will be able to engage in appropriate replacement behaviors when he is seeking out sensory stimulation.
Antecedent Interventions
- Provide Matt with a fidget toy to keep his hands busy during circle time and other quiet activities.
- Allow Matt to take short breaks during activities that he finds difficult or boring.
- Give Matt clear and consistent instructions.
- Break down tasks into smaller steps.
Setting Event Interventions
- Provide Matt with a variety of sensory toys and activities to choose from.
- Create a calm and quiet space in the classroom where Matt can go when he is feeling overwhelmed.
- Teach Matt relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
Consequent Interventions
- Provide Matt with positive reinforcement when he engages in appropriate replacement behaviors.
- Redirect Matt to an appropriate activity when he is engaging in challenging behavior.
- Avoid punishing Matt for his challenging behavior.
Replacement Behaviors
- Provide Matt with sensory breaks when he requests them.
- Allow Matt to choose from a variety of sensory toys and activities.
- Teach Matt relaxation techniques.
Supplements for Replacement Behaviors
- Provide Matt with a visual schedule to help him anticipate transitions.
- Give Matt clear and consistent expectations.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior.
Monitoring and Evaluation
It is important to monitor Matt's progress and make adjustments to the intervention plan as needed. Data can be collected on the frequency of Matt's challenging behavior, the frequency of his requests for sensory breaks, and the frequency of his use of replacement behaviors. This data can be used to determine whether the intervention plan is effective and whether any changes need to be made.
Conclusion
Matt's challenging behavior is a way for him to seek out sensory stimulation. By providing Matt with opportunities to engage in appropriate sensory activities and by teaching him relaxation techniques, we can help him to regulate his sensory needs and reduce his challenging behavior.