Capable environments

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the role played by different aspects of the social, physical and organisational environments in preventing behaviour described as challenging in people with learning disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual elaboration drawing on research and practice literature.

Findings

Community placements for people with learning disabilities should develop the characteristics of capable environments. Such characteristics are associated with prevention of challenging behaviour and improved quality of life outcomes.

Originality/value

The notion of the capable environment may help to shift the focus from the individual who displays behaviour described as challenging to the characteristics of the social, physical and organisational supports that they receive.

Citation

McGill, P., Bradshaw, J., Smyth, G., Hurman, M. and Roy, A. (2020), "Capable environments", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 25 No. 3, pp. 109-116. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-05-2020-0007