11. Positive Approach for Individuals with Difficult Behavior
Staff are trained to be supportive to people and do not raise their voices, humiliate or punish clients. The
role of the staff is to provide assistance and support, not to take the place of a boss at a job site. Staff
members act as friends and advocates.
Cathy's Story
Why?
- Adults with disabilities have the same rights as those without disabilities -- including the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
- Punishment has been shown to be an ineffective form of behavior modification.
- Employees with disabilities perform best in employment settings when primary directions and supervision comes from their employer rather than staff.
- Most people respond to guidance when they are being treated as equals, and when suggestions come from caring rather than from the need to control.
Cathy's Story
