Research shows that there is a strong correlation between language disorders and behaviour. Individuals experiencing language difficulty have trouble understanding what is being said and/or expressing their thoughts and ideas. Often an individual may feel frustrated, have lower self-esteem, feel “stupid” or a failure. When left undetected it may lead to the individual seeming noncompliant, withdrawing, being easily distracted, avoiding or escaping tasks, interfering, displaying excessive of inappropriate behaviour, showing physical aggression, exhibiting self-destructive behaviour, experiencing sensory issues, and/or internalizing.

Individuals with behavioural difficulties should consider having a language assessment by a Speech and Language Pathologist. This will assist in understanding how well the individual is able to communicate, comprehend and use language. The results will assist in developing visual aids and strategies, as well as appropriate educational and behaviour programs.  Recent studies have demonstrated the successful use of visual aids and strategies to improve communication and reduce or eliminate many undesired behaviours.

Behaviour, no matter how minimal or difficult, has a purpose, function, and meaning by the individual displaying the behaviour. Individuals displaying undesired behaviours often are experiencing communication and language difficulties, meaning “behaviour is language”. By understanding that the individual is trying to tell you something through their behaviour, in conjunction with behavioural management techniques, positive reinforcement’s and the use of personalized visual aids and strategies, undesired behaviours can be replaced by desired behaviours.