According to the Collaborative Problem Solving model, challenging behaviors often stem from what?

According to the Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) model, challenging behaviors are often seen as stemming from cognitive delays in specific areas. This approach emphasizes that difficult behaviors are not simply a result of a child's willfulness or defiance, but rather a reflection of their difficulty in navigating specific cognitive tasks or social situations. The model identifies that children may struggle with skills such as problem-solving, emotional regulation, and flexibility, which can lead to challenging behaviors when they are unable to cope with their feelings or the demands placed upon them.

In the CPS framework, the goal is to identify and address the underlying cognitive deficits rather than merely managing the behavior itself. This perspective shifts the focus from punitive measures to teaching the child the skills they need in order to respond more adaptively to their circumstances. Understanding this allows caregivers and educators to collaborate more effectively with the child to overcome these challenges, ultimately fostering better long-term outcomes.