Controlling behavioral techniques in an early intervention program.

Traditionally human service programs have lacked guidelines to safeguard the misapplication of aversive behavioral interventions. The Regional Intervention Program, a parent-implemented early intervention service, developed and instituted guidelines to control the potential abuse of behavioral techniques in the program. The guidelines delineate the behavioral interventions the program endorses and the program's position with regard to severe treatment interventions. The policy consists of interventions that can be used on a daily basis, the interventions that are not permitted under any circumstances, the interventions that require permission of the professional staff, and the interventions that may be tried only when specific conditions have been met. These guidelines provide standards and protection for the program's administration and the clients served and could be used as a guide for community mental health center consultants as well as with community mental health programs for the severely or moderately disturbed child.