Stop Looking for a Trigger: What Behavior is Really Communicating
Transcript [pdf]
SHOW NOTES
Key Takeaways
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- Behavior isn’t always about a single trigger. What we see on the surface is often the tip of the iceberg— beneath it are layers of stressors and unmet needs.
- Looking for “the trigger” oversimplifies. Rarely is behavior caused by one event or factor; it’s usually the buildup of many experiences throughout the day.
- Behavior is communication. Actions like yelling, withdrawing, or refusing tasks often signal messages like anxiety, overwhelm, or a need for connection.
- Shift the focus. Instead of eliminating behaviors, listen beneath them to understand what students are trying to express.
- Behavior isn’t always about a single trigger. What we see on the surface is often the tip of the iceberg— beneath it are layers of stressors and unmet needs.
Episode Download/Handout
The free handout— Listening Beneath the Behavior— offers practical tools to help educators interpret and respond to what’s really going on:
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- A table of common student behaviors (like yelling out, avoiding tasks, or withdrawing) paired with possible underlying messages.
- Strategies for shifting from reacting to teaching and supporting.
- Ways to reduce stressors in the environment instead of “fixing” the student.
- A table of common student behaviors (like yelling out, avoiding tasks, or withdrawing) paired with possible underlying messages.
👉 Download at inclusiveschooling.com/download57
Highlights from the Handout
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- Julie’s Favorite: Reframing “blurting out.” Instead of treating it as a rule-breaking behavior, consider messages like I’m excited, I need attention, or I’m overwhelmed— and respond accordingly.
- Kristie’s Favorite: Rethinking avoidance. When a student refuses to join, the real need may be about anxiety, sensory overwhelm, or fear of failure— clues that point to adjusting the environment rather than excluding the student.
- Julie’s Favorite: Reframing “blurting out.” Instead of treating it as a rule-breaking behavior, consider messages like I’m excited, I need attention, or I’m overwhelmed— and respond accordingly.
Practical Tips
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- Use the iceberg analogy. Remind yourself that what you see is only a small part of the story; most of the behavior’s meaning lies beneath the surface.
- Get curious, not corrective. Replace “What’s the trigger?” with “What might this behavior be communicating?”
- Offer alternative ways to participate. Gradual entry, observation roles, or flexible options can ease stress while still fostering inclusion.
- Use the iceberg analogy. Remind yourself that what you see is only a small part of the story; most of the behavior’s meaning lies beneath the surface.
Learn More About Behavior 360 our newest on-demand PD!
inclusiveschooling.com/behavior-360
