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Elopement/Running Away: How to Pick a Strategy

It is important to note that in order to pick an appropriate strategy to address elopement/running, the function of the bolting behavior must be understood. This is the why of the behavior, and explains why the child is engaging in this behavior.

​Teachers can collect observational data on the student’s behavior in order to understand why the behavior is taking place. This can help the teacher chose a strategy to meet the student’s need. When faced with extremely challenging behavior that requires more support, teachers may seek the expertise of a psychologist and/or a behaviorist to conduct a  Functional Behavior Assessment.


When gathering data to inform your intervention choice or conducting an FBA, the below patterns may be seen when analyzing the Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence Chart (ABC). Although superficially, elopement may seem to be an avoidant behavior, as a child may be running away from something aversive, it must also be considered that they are attempting to gain something else, such as access to an item, or teacher/staff attention.

Escape

Student bolts when frustrated with an assignment, peer, or other school-related issue. The behavior is reinforced through the elopement itself, as the child removes him/herself from the situation that is causing stress or difficulty.

Gain Access

Student elopes in search of something preferred, like an item, or a person. The behavior may be reinforced, even if the student gets access to the item/person for a brief period of time.

Attention

Student may bolt when he/she is left to work independently, and without immediate access to teacher support. Student gains access to this support through elopement, which reinforces the behavior.

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Marin County SELPA commissioned Dominican University of California’s Department of Special Education to identify evidence-based behavioral practices to support students, teachers, and local schools. In particular, the task was to identify positive, evidence-based classroom practices leading to academic and behavioral success.  
​Dominican University of California is located in Marin County and offers graduate programs that culminate in a Master of Science (MS) in Education degree. These programs are designed for educators and other professionals who are interested in teaching and seek preparation for leadership roles and responsibilities

  • QUICK START
  • Introduction
  • Evidence Based Practices
  • Behavior Assessments
  • Behavior Plans
  • Positive Support
  • Preschool
  • About