Decoding Shift-Change Outbursts in a Group Home
Learn how the RSP™ Framework reduced daily outbursts in a group home by 80%. Discover why shift-change transitions, capacity limits, and environmental triggers—not defiance—were the real cause, and how small adjustments built stability and trust.
Welcome to Behavior Is Data
Hi, I’m Towanda Carrigan—Behavioral Strategist, Divine Leader, and founder of 2Wanda Brands.
This blog is my personal space to share insights, stories, and strategies that help us remember one truth:
All behavior is Data. Capacity is Mental Fitness. Self-love is Divine Purpose.
Whether you’re a direct support professional, caregiver, educator, or agency leader, this space is for you. Here, you’ll find reflections that bring clarity, strategies you can apply right away, and encouragement for the journey of care and leadership.
I’d love for you to join the conversation. Share your story, reflect on your “why,” and let’s keep building systems where every brain can thrive.
INTRODUCTION
In group home environments, multiple residents and rotating staff schedules can create hidden triggers. What looks like aggression or resistance may actually be a response to capacity limits. With the RSP™ Method & Blueprint, we move beyond labels to see the real story behind behavior.
THE SCENARIO
In one group home, staff noticed a resident had repeated late-afternoon outbursts—yelling, pacing, and sometimes throwing objects. These episodes happened so consistently that staff braced themselves daily, unsure how to respond. Traditional discipline and redirection weren’t working.
THE RSP™ LENS
When the RSP™ framework was applied, the data pointed to one overlooked factor: shift change. Around 4:30 p.m., the house got louder as new staff arrived, conversations increased, and routines shifted. For the resident, this sudden change in environment created sensory and emotional overload.
THE SOLUTION
A simple adjustment was made: staff introduced a quiet transition activity right before shift change. For 20 minutes, the resident engaged in a preferred calming routine—listening to music, coloring, or walking outside. By the time staff rotation was complete, the resident was settled and incidents decreased by 80% in just two weeks.
THE INSIGHT
“Stability isn’t only about people—it’s about how environments are structured. When we honor capacity and prepare for transitions, we prevent crises and build trust.”
At 2Wanda Brands, we believe: All behavior is Data. Capacity is Mental Fitness. Self-love is Divine Purpose.
