Noncompliance Assessments, Interventions, and Ethical Considerations for Young Children: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Noncompliance is a frequently reported challenging behavior for young children. However, many interventions that address noncompliance fail to consider crucial self-advocacy skills that may be jeopardized when compliance is taught in isolation. We examined the noncompliance literature in the context of ethical considerations for young children: (1) decision-making skills related to compliance, (2) teaching discrimination within contexts where compliance may or may not be appropriate, and (3) addressing support needs that may impact compliance. We found that many noncompliance assessments were not developmentally appropriate, related support needs were largely unaddressed, and ethical factors were infrequently considered when designing noncompliance interventions. Researchers and practitioners should consider assessments that identify ecological factors and support needs related to noncompliance. Young children should be taught discrimination of contexts where noncompliance is appropriate and where compliance is appropriate to promote volitional skills that are necessary for future independence.