Areas of Work

Restraint/Crisis Intervention Techniques Initiative

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the charge of the committee?
• How is 'restraint defined by the committee?
• Are the coordinated standards intended for children only?

What is the charge of the committee?

The committee has a three-fold charge.

1. First the group was required to identify the most effective, least restrictive and safest techniques for the modification of a child's behavior in response to an actual or perceived threat by the child of harm or bodily injury to the child or others. This required the group to examine a number of behavior supports as well as focus on the most restrictive forms of crisis intervention.
2. Next the group was required to review models of crisis prevention and intervention, including the use of physical restraints.
3. Last, the group was to establish uniform and coordinated standards.

These standards are outlined in the report submitted to the Legislature September, 2007.

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How is 'restraint' defined by the committee?

Restraint refers to physical restraints. Specifically, physical restraint is defined as the application of physical force by one or more individuals that immobilizes or reduces the ability of another individual to move his or her arms, legs, body or head freely, for the purpose of preventing harm to self or others. Physical restraint is used in emergency situations and does not include the use of touch for the purpose of calming or comforting the individual, or assistance or support of an individual for the purpose of permitting him or her to participate in activities of daily living (ADL), such as eating, dressing and educational activities or for the purpose of conditioning behavior. This is considered one of the most restrictive forms of crisis intervention.

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Are the coordinated standards intended for children only?

The standards were developed for children but may be applicable to adults.

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