Physical Aggression Tops Behavioral Challenges Among Children With Complex Behavioral Health Needs

Physical aggression ranked as the most frequently reported behavioral challenge among children identified by state agencies as having complex behavioral health conditions, according to a recent report. Other commonly reported challenges included disruption or dysregulation in structured settings, suicidal ideation or self-harm, property destruction, inappropriate sexual behaviors, and elopement (leaving a setting without permission).

The research combined a comprehensive data scan, including surveys of 21 unique states and 30 subject matter experts; interviews with more than 30 additional professionals and individuals with lived experience; a state-level policy review and analysis spanning nine states; five focus groups; and a . . .