A sudden change in behavior without a clear cause can be indicative of what?

A sudden change in behavior without a clear cause can be indicative of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This is because such behavioral shifts often signal underlying distress or trauma that a person may be experiencing. Individuals may react to harmful situations in different ways, including withdrawal, aggression, anxiety, or other unusual behaviors.

In the context of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities – Zero Tolerance framework, recognizing these changes is critical for the protection and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Understanding and addressing these behavioral changes promptly can help in identifying situations of potential abuse or neglect, allowing for appropriate interventions to safeguard the individual.

While personal growth, health improvement, or changes in interests can also lead to alterations in behavior, these typically occur in a more gradual and explained manner. Unlike the sudden changes linked to abuse or neglect, which are often abrupt and without clear justification, the other options would generally have more positive or recognizable influences on behavior.