IRM Basics
What does IRM stand for?
Intentional Relationship Model
Name one common category of difficult behavior.
Manipulative behavior, resistance, denial
What approach links behavior to early family relationships?
Psychodynamic
What skill prevents negative reactions toward clients?
Interpersonal self-discipline.
What is the first step in managing behavior?
Understanding why it occurs.
How does IRM define difficult behavior?
Recurring, enduring, or intense behavior that triggers negative emotional reactions.
Excessive dependence often stems from what?
Fear, insecurity, or need for reassurance.
Which theory focuses on learned and reinforced behaviors?
Behavioral theory
Why must therapists monitor their own emotions?
To avoid unintentionally triggering behavior in clients.
The IRM encourages responding with what?
Intentional, planned therapeutic reactions.
What is the therapist’s primary responsibility when difficult behavior occurs?
Maintain self-awareness, emotional regulation, and therapeutic intentionality.
What behavior involves focusing solely on symptoms?
Symptom focusing.
Which approach attributes behavior to distorted thinking patterns?
Cognitive-behavioral.
What is the key goal of therapist self-management?
Protect the therapeutic relationship.
Why shouldn’t OTs try to “fix” personality-level behavior?
Because the goal is functional participation, not personality change.
Why is difficult behavior important to understand?
It affects treatment outcomes and therapist well-being.
What is emotional disengagement?
Withdrawing emotionally from the therapeutic process.
Systems theory views difficult behavior as part of what?
A larger interaction or relational dynamic.
What risk increases when therapists struggle to manage behavior?
Burnout or emotional fatigue.
When basic IRM strategies fail, what should therapists seek?
Supervision or specialized training.
According to research, what % of OTs reported behavior affecting treatment outcomes?
90%
Difficulty with rapport often reflects issues with what?
rust, past relational trauma, or fear of vulnerability.
Humanistic theory links conflict to what?
Unmet emotional needs from childhood.
What should therapists avoid doing during conflict?
Reacting impulsively or defensively.
What is the ultimate goal of managing difficult behavior?
Continue progressing toward therapy goals while supporting the relationship.