A Review of Protective Equipment Used in Challenging Behavior Intervention

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Psychology

Date

11-2025

Abstract

Using protective equipment (PE) in challenging behavior intervention for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities is rooted in longstanding controversy. Some forms of challenging behavior present a substantial risk of serious injury, are resistant to less intrusive interventions, or both. Incorporating PE in interventions is one strategy that can mitigate injury risk or suppress challenging behavior altogether. Various devices, equipment, and clothing, like arm splints and helmets, are often used as forms of PE. Thus, the level of restriction PE imposes on the wearer exists on a continuum. Best practice guidelines for PE use primarily focus on forms that restrict mobility. Less guidance exists for less restrictive forms. Moreover, little is known about adherence to these guidelines, the prevalence of PE use, and the extent to which it leads to meaningful clinical outcomes. As concerns related to the use of restrictive interventions with individuals exhibiting challenging behavior rise, further understanding of PE as a behavioral intervention is crucial. The purpose of this review is threefold: First, we summarize variations of PE and intervention packages used in published research; second, we detail the presence of various elements of safety and effectiveness described in the included studies; and third, we provide recommendations for future research.

Original Citation

Sullivan, E. K., Zarcone, J. R., & Zangrillo, A. N. (2025). A review of protective equipment used in challenging behavior intervention. Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice, 25(4), 204–227. https://doi.org/10.1037/bar0000313

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