What type of change is often indicative of potential abuse or neglect in a person with developmental disabilities?

Significant behavioral changes are often indicative of potential abuse or neglect in a person with developmental disabilities. This is because such shifts can manifest as a reaction to trauma or stress experienced by the individual. For instance, a person who was previously social may become withdrawn, or vice versa, indicating something is amiss in their environment or treatment.

Behavioral changes can vary widely, including but not limited to increased aggression, withdrawal, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, and other marked differences in behavior that deviate from the individual’s norm. These alterations often serve as red flags that warrant further investigation, as they could be signs of distress or harmful situations.

In contrast, stabilization of behavior, sudden emergence of new interests, and an increase in social engagements might not necessarily indicate a problem. These changes could represent positive developments in a person's life, such as improved health, newfound confidence, or effective interventions. Hence, while these circumstances may be noteworthy, they do not typically raise the same level of concern as significant behavioral changes do.