Gentle teaching

Gentle Teaching is a therapeutic approach used to support individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. Developed by Dr. John McGee in the 1980s, Gentle Teaching emphasizes building trust, safety, and connectedness between caregivers and individuals, focusing on creating a supportive and non-violent environment. The method prioritizes the development of a trusting, loving relationship between the caregiver and the individual. It aims to create an environment where the person feels safe, valued, and loved. Gentle Teaching strictly avoids the use of punishment, coercion, or any aversive techniques. It promotes positive reinforcement and gentle, non-verbal communication. The approach emphasizes the importance of building emotional connections through touch, eye contact, and soft, reassuring voices. Caregivers are trained to engage in interactions that make the person feel safe and secure. This may include using calm and reassuring body language, as well as creating a predictable and nurturing environment. Instead of correcting behavior through discipline, caregivers model positive behaviors and gently guide the individual towards them. This is done through encouragement and consistent, supportive interactions. The method focuses on empowering the individual by helping them feel in control of their environment and interactions. It encourages participation in decision-making and promotes independence. While Gentle Teaching is widely used and has many advocates, there is limited empirical research supporting its effectiveness compared to more established, evidence-based practices like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). However, although not currently considered a method with scientific evidence, the principles of "Gentle teaching" should always be applied by people who work with people with autism, since they are basic principles of respect and are aligned with people's human rights.