Challenging behaviour: The causes (part II)

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the dominant approaches used to explain causes of challenging behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: This paper is the second in a two-part series. It presents the causes of challenging behaviour according to the three theoretical approaches that have dominated the literature: applied behaviour analysis; biological factors; and psychiatric disorders. Findings: It is apparent that the causes of challenging behaviour are likely to be complex and involve multiple factors. The approaches that have dominated the literature focus on single causes and do not explore possible interactions between various causes. Given the shortcomings of e..