Behaviour State: Exploring Issues in Best Practice for Students with the Most Severe and Multiple Disabilities

Abstract

Behaviour state appears to be a powerful variable in students who experience the most severe and multiple disabilities, impacting upon the effectiveness of educational interventions and ultimately the quality of life experienced by individuals with such high support needs.Most recently, research attention has been paid to the many qualitative dimensions of behaviour state and although at an early stage, such studies have allowed for the delineation of important influencing factors in state change as well as serving to stimulate many new avenues for further research.This discussion paper will examine, albeit tentatively, the implications of current research in this area with respect to best practice, including aspects of curriculum design and professional development. How effectively does a functional curriculum articulate with the priorities and directions suggested by such research? How can teachers and others working in this area be supported in the provision of meaningful interventions which promote and produce increases in optimal behavioural states? The paper concludes by suggesting future directions for research and practice.