A strategy based on functional assessment of behaviour has improved the life of one patient and his family’s understanding of his condition, say Tandy Palmes and Penelope Millington

This case study describes the implementation of positive behaviour support by a learning disability child and adolescent mental health team. Care was planned and carried out in the family setting for a young child with severe learning disability and self-injurious behaviour, after a full assessment. The parents’ perspectives are included, and the theory and evidence base are considered. The outcomes of the interventions are evaluated as positive and sustainable.