Using common coping mechanisms to handle responsive challenges –

When caregivers are overworked, tired, stressed and, possibly, untrained their responses to responsive behaviors from individuals in their care may not be ideal. That doesn’t mean they don’t mean well, but they may have difficulty applying the right strategies. Here are some common coping mechanisms they may use to handle such behaviors in these challenging conditions:

Reacting Impulsively

Showing Frustration or Annoyance:

Without the tools to manage their own stress, caregivers might openly show frustration or irritation, possibly raising their voice, sighing, or using negative body language. This reaction can unintentionally escalate the behavior.

Being Short or Dismissive:

Caregivers may respond with quick, dismissive comments or commands, which might make the individual feel misunderstood or ignored, potentially intensifying the behavior.

Using a “Stop” Approach

Trying to Stop the Behavior Quickly:

Caregivers might use short commands like “Stop that,” “Don’t do that,” or “Be quiet,” in an attempt to quickly control the situation. This approach rarely addresses the root cause and can leave the individual feeling frustrated or anxious.

Ignoring or Avoiding the Behavior:

In some cases, caregivers may choose to ignore the behavior altogether, hoping it will subside on its own, especially if they feel too overwhelmed to engage.

Withdrawing or Distancing

Walking Away to De-Escalate Themselves:

Sometimes, caregivers may simply leave the room or area, putting physical distance between themselves and the person displaying the behavior. While it might provide temporary relief for the caregiver, it can also leave the individual feeling abandoned or confused.

Avoiding Engagement or Eye Contact:

To avoid triggering further responsive behaviors, caregivers might limit eye contact or avoid interaction with the individual altogether, leading to feelings of isolation for the person in care.

More Ways that Care Partners May Cope

 

Using Physical Prompting or Control

Guiding Physically Without Explanation:

Caregivers might physically move the individual to a different location or position without offering an explanation. This can make the individual feel powerless or agitated and may increase resistance in the future.

Restricting Movement or Activities:

Out of fear or stress, caregivers might limit the person’s movement or activities, perhaps by keeping them seated or directing them to stay in one area. This may temporarily control the behavior but can lead to frustration or increased agitation.

Adopting a Task-Focused Approach

Prioritizing Task Completion Over Interaction:

Stressed caregivers often focus on getting tasks done quickly rather than engaging with the person. This task-oriented approach may appear rushed, reducing the chance of meaningful interaction and potentially heightening anxiety or confusion for the person being cared for.

Overlooking the Person’s Emotional State:

When overworked, caregivers might miss cues about the individual’s emotional needs, treating the behavior as a disruption rather than a signal of discomfort, boredom, or other unmet needs.

Seeking “Quick Fixes”

Using Distractions Without Meaning:

Caregivers might offer simple distractions—like turning on a TV or giving the person an object to hold—without connecting it to the individual’s preferences or interests, which may or may not effectively address the behavior.

Offering Repetitive Comfort Phrases:

They may use phrases like “It’s okay” or “Calm down,” repeatedly, hoping to soothe the person, but without offering a deeper connection or addressing the cause of distress.

Experiencing Emotional Burnout

Expressing Hopelessness or Resignation:

Tired and overworked caregivers might verbalize feelings of burnout or hopelessness. They may, potentially, say things like “I don’t know what to do with you” or “This always happens.” This can inadvertently convey to the individual that their needs won’t be met.

Losing Patience or Appearing Disconnected:

Emotional exhaustion can result in caregivers appearing withdrawn, inattentive, or even resentful. This may make the individual feel like a burden, worsening their feelings and behaviors.

Without proper training and support, caregivers in these circumstances often rely on coping mechanisms that may seem practical in the moment but do little to address the person’s needs or build a positive caregiving relationship.

 

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