Behavioral interventions

Abstract

Behavioral interventions can be broadly divided into two categories: the management of disruptive behaviors and pain management. Approaches should be planned and implemented in consultation with a psychologist experienced in behavioral treatment. Parent=patient education, longitudinal follow up, and a consistent approach are keys to the success of these techniques. Behavioral treatments can be used in isolation or as a means to maximize the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy. Interventions based on the principles of applied behavioral analysis, including operant conditioning, can be effective in ameliorating oppositional and disruptive behaviors, aggression, inattention, academic difficulties, impulsivity, deficiencies in communication skills, self-injurious behavior, and sleep problems. Relaxation training in conjunction with biofeedback techniques can be successful in treating chronic pain syndromes such as migraine.