Self-Injurious behaviors, aggression, and risk-taking behaviors are noted symptoms of various developmental disorders in children such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disabilities. Children must also have deficits in one or more areas of functioning related to motor skills, adaptive skills, sensory processing, and communication to receive these diagnoses. Occupational therapists typically address these behaviors utilizing a sensory approach to facilitate participation in occupation-based activities. Behavior theory considers environmental factors influencing all behavior and relies on operant conditioning to modify that behavior. Behavior analysts utilize applied behavior analysis to decrease maladaptive behaviors. While literature is available to support and refute both disciplines’ approaches to behavioral concerns, this manuscript will illustrate the need for collaboration between occupational therapists and behavior analysts and the development of standards to guide that collaboration to improve outcomes for children demonstrating maladaptive behaviors.
