Four Steps

"I Can't"

I.	Behavior
II.	Effects
III.	Action
IV.	Mistakes

« Behavior List

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Instructions

Learn more about using this resource:

Introduction
I.	Behavior
II.	Effects
III.	Action
	Primary Causes of Misbehavior
	Primary Needs Being Revealed
	Secondary Needs Being Revealed
	Methods, Procedures, and Techniques
IV.	Mistakes

Behavior Information

"I Can't"

Behavior: How exactly is my child behaving?

1. Approaches every task insisting, "I can't."
   
   
2. Even claims to be unable to do tasks that he or she has done before.
   
   
3. Behavior is habitual.
   
   
4. Says, "I can't" before listening to parent or teacher explain what it is he or she is claiming to be unable to do.
   
   
5. Through parent's cajoling, prodding, and even begging, continues to say, "I can't."
   
   
6. Acts scared.
   
   
7. Worries continuously.
   
   
8. Insecure.
   
   

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Please Note

We are labeling behaviors, not children!

For the sake of convenience, we will describe behaviors with terms such as The Whiner or The Interrupter.

Never use such labels when talking to—or about—children!

Doing so could cause many new problems and seriously damage the parent-child relationship.

Seek professional assistance!

Many behaviors--or changes in behavior--can signal an underlying emotional or mental health issue.

Don't hesitate to contact your child's school social worker, counselor, or doctor for any concerns you may have.

Contact Us

We welcome your questions and comments. Please feel free to contact us.

In the event that you have questions regarding how to handle a specific child's behavior, please seek professional assistance.