‘Environments of concern’: Reframing challenging behaviour within a human rights approach
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First published online 01 February 2023.
Why this study was done
People with disabilities are sometimes described as showing “challenging behaviour.” However, this language can place blame on the individual rather than looking at the environment around them. This study aimed to rethink this idea using a human rights approach, focusing on how environments and systems may contribute to distress or behaviour.
What the study did
The authors reviewed current approaches to positive behaviour support and compared them with modern human rights frameworks, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
What the study found
The study found that:
Current language and practices around “challenging behaviour” are outdated
They often focus too much on changing the individual rather than the environment
Environmental factors (like support systems, services, and social conditions) play a major role in behaviour
A human rights approach shifts the focus to “environments of concern” instead of blaming the person
What this means
This research suggests we should move away from blaming individuals and instead:
Improve environments and support systems
Focus on dignity, rights, and inclusion
Recognise behaviour as a response to unmet needs or unsuitable conditions
Overall, it promotes a more respectful, rights-based way of understanding and supporting people with disabilities.
This study was conducted by: Dr. Mikaela Jorgensen, Professor Karen Nankervis and Dr. Jeffrey Chan.
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone, and clarity and approved by the author.
First published online 01 February 2023.
Why this study was done
People with disabilities are sometimes described as showing “challenging behaviour.” However, this language can place blame on the individual rather than looking at the environment around them. This study aimed to rethink this idea using a human rights approach, focusing on how environments and systems may contribute to distress or behaviour.
What the study did
The authors reviewed current approaches to positive behaviour support and compared them with modern human rights frameworks, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
What the study found
The study found that:
Current language and practices around “challenging behaviour” are outdated
They often focus too much on changing the individual rather than the environment
Environmental factors (like support systems, services, and social conditions) play a major role in behaviour
A human rights approach shifts the focus to “environments of concern” instead of blaming the person
What this means
This research suggests we should move away from blaming individuals and instead:
Improve environments and support systems
Focus on dignity, rights, and inclusion
Recognise behaviour as a response to unmet needs or unsuitable conditions
Overall, it promotes a more respectful, rights-based way of understanding and supporting people with disabilities.
This study was conducted by: Dr. Mikaela Jorgensen, Professor Karen Nankervis and Dr. Jeffrey Chan.
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone, and clarity and approved by the author.
