Hitting behaviors can be very upsetting for parents and caregivers. When a person with a disability strikes out, it’s easy to interpret the action as aggression or anger. While that may sometimes be the case, hitting is often associated with frustration or an inability to communicate effectively.

“This kind of behavior can be very upsetting for caregivers, but understanding the root causes and implementing tailored strategies can help improve outcomes for both the individual displaying the behavior and their environment,”  Brittany DeBell, a Wildwood behaviorist says.

Hitting behaviors vary from open-handed slaps to closed-fist hits and can also involve pinching, biting, or throwing objects. These behaviors are often a form of communication, signaling distress, frustration, or unmet needs.

“Recognizing the signs early can help prevent escalation and promote healthier coping mechanisms. It can be difficult emotionally, but if you look at it as an attempt to communicate, it can help with your ability to address it,” Brittany says.

People may hit for a number of reasons. Frustration is a common trigger, particularly when an individual struggles to communicate or is told “no.” Hitting can also be a way to express emotions like anger or sadness, and it may serve as a coping mechanism in a chaotic or over stimulating environment.

“Changes in routine can lead to hitting, especially when it involves being denied something they want. It’s also important to consider factors like low blood sugar, lack of sleep, or other conditions that can cause irritability,” Brittany says.

Understanding why a person hits is crucial to developing an effective intervention strategy. One primary cause of hitting is a lack of effective communication. Teaching individuals to express their needs through spoken language, sign language, or picture-based communication systems can reduce frustration and the likelihood of hitting. Caregivers can work with the person to learn phrases like “stop” or “break, please” to signal distress before hitting occurs.

“Once the underlying function of hitting is identified, caregivers can teach alternative ways to meet the person’s needs,” Brittany says. “For instance, if someone hits to indicate they want a break, they can be taught to use the sign for “done” instead. Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can also reduce frustration and the desire to hit.”

Offering alternatives to the person’s request can empower them to make choices without resorting to hitting. For example, if a child requests a cookie and is denied, the caregiver can provide alternative snack options, like crackers or an apple, to avoid confrontation and encourage healthier decision-making.

“Sometimes, the caregiver’s reaction to hitting can unintentionally reinforce the behavior. Individuals diagnosed with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities may hit to seek attention, even if the attention they receive is negative. Caregivers should respond to hitting with calm, firm redirection rather than escalating the situation,” Brittany says.

Reinforcing positive behavior is key to long-term behavior change. When a person uses appropriate methods to communicate their needs or avoids hitting, caregivers should praise them enthusiastically and reward them within reason. This encourages the repetition of positive behaviors and reduces reliance on hitting as a means of communication.

“Managing hitting behaviors requires patience, consistency, and a tailored approach that respects the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. By teaching communication skills, offering choices, and positively reinforcing good behaviors, caregivers can create a supportive environment that promotes healthier ways of expressing emotions and needs,” Brittany says.