A full and active life supported by caring relationships can
reduce the occurrence of challenging behaviors in people with
intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1. However, if
such behaviors occur, people with intellectual and/or
developmental disabilities and those who support them must have
access to positive behavioral supports that focus on improved
quality of life as well as reductions in the behaviors. People
with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities need
supportive and caring relationships in order to develop full and
active lives. Historically, people with intellectual and/or
developmental disabilities across the age span have frequently
been subjected to aversive procedures (i.e., electric shock,
cold water sprays and deprivations like withholding food or
visitation with friends and family) that may cause physical
pain, discomfort and/or psychological harm. Children and adults
with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities are
frequently subjected to physical restraint, includi