Document Type

Other

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

The many negative effects of brain damage have been well studied, and some populations are at a higher risk for this type of injury, such as athletes and soldiers. In response, research has led to the development of increased head protection solutions, such as helmets. However, this is not the case for all at-risk populations of head trauma, specifically individuals who engage in headdirected self-injurious behavior. This study was conducted to assess the ways in which BCBAs treat clients who engage in this behavior. The results yielded information on some key client demographics and different treatment strategies used to intervene on head-directed self-injury. It was found that individuals who engage in head-directed self-injurious behavior were most commonly under the age of 15 years old and typically had a clinical diagnosis, such as autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability. Additionally, it was found that BCBAs are open to the use of supportive equipment (helmets, blocking pads, etc.); however, they are hesitant to implement due to lack of knowledge about efficacy of equipment available on the market and the social stigmatization that accompanies headgear/helmets.

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2024 Reid Wieczorek

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