What should a DSP do to prevent resistance behavior during an oral hygiene activity?

Stopping the activity immediately is not a proactive approach to preventing resistance behavior during an oral hygiene activity. Instead, it is important for a Direct Support Professional to recognize that the goal is to promote cooperation and positive engagement.

The most effective way to minimize resistance is to encourage the individual to understand the importance of the activity and to foster an environment that is engaging and supportive. Encouraging the individual to persist, offering distractions, or changing the time of day are all strategies aimed at making the activity more acceptable and less stressful for the person receiving support.

By doing so, a DSP can help the individual become more comfortable with the oral hygiene routine, potentially minimizing any negative feelings or resistance they may have. It's vital to focus on fostering a positive experience rather than abruptly halting the activity, as this could reinforce negative associations and behaviors linked to oral hygiene tasks.