Blocking Unsafe Behaviors

Response Blocking + Redirection for Aggression, Elopement, and Self-Injury

Blocking Unsafe Behaviors is a three-step safety strategy: briefly block the dangerous action, immediately redirect to a function-matched replacement skill, and reinforce the safer choice. Used correctly—and always by staff trained in crisis-management techniques—response blocking protects learners and peers while preserving calm, predictable care in classrooms, clinics, and community settings.

Why use Blocking Unsafe Behaviors?

• Instant injury prevention. Quick, least-restrictive blocks stop hits, bites, or bolting before harm occurs, reducing staff- and student-injury rates by up to 60 %.
• Faster acquisition of replacement skills. Pairing each block with an immediate, function-matched redirection (e.g., asking for a break) speeds up learning of the safer behavior.
• Better long-term behavior reduction. When combined with strong reinforcement plans, blocking + redirection has been shown to lower severe behavior frequencies across sessions while maintaining rapport.