Page 37 - Strength Based Approach to Executive Function Skills DRAFT
P. 37
How Executive Function Skill
difficulties can spiral into
bigger struggles
PANIC!
The class is given a string of
instructions about a writing task.
The stressor of unmet emotional
As they sit down, the teacher
1 reminds the class of their targets 2 needs (not feeling capable or
and things to include. certain) is triggered.
The child sits at his seat then
realizes he doesn’t know what to
do.
3
The emotional
stressor along
5 with impulse
control difficulties
The teacher gives the child a leads the child to
4 behavior point. He now start work
doesn’t feel in control of avoiding -
what is happening to him.
mucking around
and flicking a
pencil.
The teacher gives
him a warning.
The added emotional stressor of feeling
a lack of control along with his poor
skills in regulating big feelings leads to
a fight stress response.
