In behavioural practice, supporting individuals isn’t just about addressing challenges or teaching new skills. It’s also about respecting and promoting fundamental human rights, including the right to autonomy. Autonomy means having the freedom to make choices about one’s own life—a concept that is central to ethical and effective practice.
Understanding Autonomy in Practice
Autonomy is more than just independence; it’s about having meaningful control over decisions. From selecting goals to choosing how to engage in daily activities, individuals must have a say in what happens to them. Behavioural practitioners play a vital role in fostering this by:
Offering Choice:
Providing options rather than dictating solutions.
Building Skills:
Creating Supportive Environments:
Linking Human Rights to Behavioural Practice
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) highlights autonomy as a cornerstone of dignity and equality. Behaviour analysts can align their practice with these principles by:
Respecting Individual Preferences: Goals should reflect the person’s values, not just those of caregivers or professionals.
Avoiding Coercion: Ethical practice requires us to teach and support without using restrictive or controlling methods.
Promoting Inclusion: Individuals must have the opportunity to participate fully in their communities and decision-making processes.
Practical Strategies for Supporting Autonomy
Incorporate Preference Assessments:
Regularly check in with individuals to understand what matters most to them.
Allow for flexibility as preferences change over time.
Use Person-Centred Planning:
Collaborate with individuals to set meaningful goals.
Ensure that plans are developed with, not just for, the person.
Prioritise Consent and Assent:
Seek active consent for interventions.
Monitor for signs of assent or dissent, adapting approaches accordingly.
Teach Decision-Making Skills:
Help individuals learn to evaluate options and make informed choices.
Encourage self-advocacy and communication of needs.
Why It Matters
Respecting human rights and fostering autonomy isn’t just ethical—it’s also effective. When individuals feel empowered and respected, they are more likely to be able to live their lives the way they want. Moreover, promoting autonomy helps shift behavioural practice away from outdated, deficit-focused models and towards approaches that celebrate individuality and capability. By embedding human rights and autonomy into our work, we ensure that behavioural practice not only addresses challenges but also uplifts and empowers the individuals we support.
Which strategy do you feel is most important for promoting autonomy?
Incorporating regular preference assessments.
Using person-centred planning.
Prioritising consent and assent.
Teaching decision-making skills.