Aversive procedures use painful stimuli in response to behaviors that are deemed unacceptable by their caregivers.
All aversive techniques have in common the application of physically or emotionally painful stimuli.
Brief physical restraint under these circumstances is not treatment. It is used to assure safety in an urgent situation. Treatment is meant to reduce or prevent further occurrence of the behavior by increasing the individual's competence in dealing with the circumstances that provoke the endangering behavior. Individuals with disabilities who act in ways that are dangerous deserve at least the same protections afforded prisoners against cruel and unusual punishment. Additionally, they have a right to treatment that is both humane and effective.