Behavior Issues in Schools are Unmet Needs

Behavior is more than what we see on the surface — it is a reflection of underlying needs that may not yet be met or understood. When we shift our perspective from judgment to curiosity, behavior becomes a window into the learner’s experiences, challenges, and strengths.

Unmet needs often show up through:

• Sensory: Over- or under-stimulation, seeking input, or sensory overload.
• Executive Functioning: Difficulties with organization, memory, initiation, or transitions.
• Regulation: Struggles with managing emotions, stress, or energy levels.
• Communication: Using behavior as expression when words are not accessible.
• Autonomy: Resistance or shutdown when a learner feels a lack of choice or control.

By recognizing that behavior is communication, we move away from labels like “non-compliant” or “defiant” and instead ask:

👉🏾What need is this behavior telling us about?

When we honor behavior as a signal of unmet needs, we create space for compassion, support, and solutions that affirm the whole child.