The Myth of Attention-Seeking Behavior: Supporting Health and Wellness in People with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

As a behavioural consultant, one of the most common phrases used in referral information is that the individual is engaging in a series of behaviors “just to get attention”. Attention has been postulated as a motivation for behavior by the most widely used behavioral assessments such as the Motivation Assessment Scale, the Functional Assessment Screening Tool and others. This article will present the concept that people do not want attention, rather they want the things attention brings, such as safety, affection, acceptance and other needs. In a sense, attention is the means to an end, and not the end itself. A conceptualization for identifying the reinforcers sought by people using behavior to get the attention of others is presented within the context of a single case study.