Least-restrictive procedures are generally regarded as what?

Least-restrictive procedures are regarded as the preferred initial strategy because they align with the principle of supporting individuals' autonomy and rights while promoting positive behavior change. The idea behind least-restrictive approaches is to provide interventions that are minimally invasive and that allow individuals to maintain their dignity and independence. By implementing these strategies first, practitioners can create supportive environments that encourage positive behavior without resorting to more restrictive measures unless absolutely necessary.

This approach emphasizes a preference for techniques that empower individuals and incorporate their personal preferences and contexts. It allows for the possibility of effective intervention through positive reinforcement, environmental modifications, and skill-building, which can be more beneficial in the long term. Emphasizing least-restrictive procedures as initial strategies not only promotes the ethical treatment of individuals but also helps in minimizing potential negative consequences associated with more restrictive interventions.