Understanding Sensory Impact on Behaviour

Our senses are incredibly powerful: they can act as triggers, taking us back to thoughts and feelings associated with previous experiences. These feelings can be positive, with happy memories filling us with a sense of nostalgia. Conversely, certain smells or sounds may relate to traumatic events and trigger challenging emotions. When this happens, the individual is at risk of spiralling into crisis.

As professionals and carers, the more we understand the function of the behaviour and potential triggers, the better equipped we are to support those in our care. While we can’t eradicate sensory triggers associated with previous trauma, what we can do is create coping strategies and techniques to de-escalate behaviours and support self-regulation.

Making Connections

At the heart of all Team Teach training is the principle of getting to know the child, young person or adult you support. Demonstrating a genuine interest in the individual and taking the time to make connections builds levels of mutual respect and trust. To overcome the challenging emotions that senses can trigger, the person needs to feel safe and supported.

Considering ways to develop positive relations needs to take into account individual needs and can vary depending on our settings. But regardless of where we work, we have to be prepared to be flexible. We can’t force positive relations, but we can grow them organically with time and patience. We can build on what we already know about the individual to make meaningful connections.

Being aware of our impact on senses

The Team Teach Cycle of Influence model describes how feelings and emotions come from previous experiences and drive behavioural responses.

Take the example of a professional wearing strong perfume working with an individual. Unknowingly, the perfume is the same worn by the abuser many years ago. The smell triggers a hugely traumatic experience and intensely challenging emotions. A similar example would be the smell of cigarettes or strong coffee. The individual may respond physically towards the professional, increasing risk for everyone. Without realising it, we can be the trigger behind an escalation of behaviour.