Challenging Behaviours in Indigenous Youth

Anderson Therapy Services has been collaborating and working with Indigenous/First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Northern Canada, Ontario and Quebec.

Behaviour Therapy uses principles and techniques of Applied Analysis (ABA) to decrease a wide-range of challenging behaviours that limit participation in daily activities and/or interaction with others. Behaviour therapy works by identifying why the person engages in these challenging behaviours, and teaches them a new way to have these needs met in a more appropriate manner. Positive reinforcement is used to increase these desirable replacement behaviours, and caregivers are taught how to maintain these behaviour changes over time.

Some examples of behaviours that can be addressed using behaviour therapy:

• Aggression towards others (e.g. hitting, kicking, biting)
• Property destruction (e.g. throwing, ripping or breaking items)
• Tantrums (e.g. crying, screaming, falling to the floor)
• Non-compliance with simple instructions
• Stereotypic motor movements and vocalizations (e.g. repeating words or phrases, hand flapping)
• Self-injury
• Elopement (e.g. running away from a caregiver or designated area)

Our therapy services for Indigenous/First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities can be accessed in remote areas using our online videoconferencing technology as well as on-site visits. Our unique service delivery model, in partnership with communities, has helped many First Nations children and youth achieve success across various needs.