Task Analysis:
1. When an example of self-abuse occurs, physically block the action and attempt to redirect the student, attention toward an activity that is enjoyed. Pleasurable behaviors that would interfere with the abusive action, such as using the hands to press a switch when the hands were used to perform the abuse, are preferred. The process of physically intervening must be performed whenever self-abuse is observed, if requests to stop are not effective.
2. Develop a hypothesis as to what the student may be trying to communicate through this action. Using that theory verbally, and if necessary physically, intervene. Then provide the activity that is perceived to be being requested. At the same time, prompt the student to perform a "cue," such as raising a hand or pointing to a picture. Try another hypothesis if unsuccessful. Where success is observed, physically modify the dally activities to give more focus to these concepts.
3. Continue Step 2, reducing the physical intervention concept to gestural and verbal prompting the student to use the "cue."
4. Reduce the verbal and gestural prompting, as possible, and emphasize the "cue."
5. If Steps 1 through 4 yield no lasting result, experiment with the environment by taking the student to different (more peaceful and less stimulating) places and watch for changes. If positive results are noted, change the real environment to meet those needs.