Seclusion and Restraint Study published
The National Disability Rights Network has published a study on Seclusion and Restraint in schools. For many of us who have witnessed first-hand the effects of this treatment on our children, this report is difficult to read. We can only hope that by shining a light on this abuse, we can hasten its discontinuation. The full report is available online as a pdf. It is a long report, and the recommendations are near the end.
It is a good idea to know your school district’s policy on the use of seclusion and restraint, and to make sure that your wishes regarding your child are documented. School staff need to realize that prevention of challenging behavior is less disruptive and more effective than punishment. Efforts need to be focused on implementing positive behavioral supports for students with autism, instead of on designing elaborate “consequences.” Unfortunately, many outbursts are escalated by inappropriate staff responses. Stories like this one are far too common.
The long-lasting psychological damage of this abuse on children with disabilities has not been documented. One young adult I know well still has nightmares about his middle school experiences.