Ep 112: Understanding Behavior as Communication With Ley Linder

In this IDD Perspectives webinar episode Dr. Craig Escudé and behavior analyst Ley Linder discuss the five core functions of behavior—access to items/activities, access to attention, escape, avoidance, and sensory/autonomic reinforcement—and emphasize that behaviors are typically multi-functional and require multidisciplinary approaches for effective support. They highlight the importance of recognizing behavioral changes as potential indicators of underlying medical issues, warning against diagnostic overshadowing. The conversation also stresses the value of empathy, human connection, and the critical role of direct support professionals in identifying subtle behavioral shifts. Practical tools, such as pattern recognition and the "duck philosophy" (favoring simple explanations first), are recommended to improve care and reduce unnecessary suffering.