When working with a client who elopes, is arranging a game of chase appropriate?

The decision to avoid arranging a game of chase with a client who has a history of eloping is rooted in the principle of safety. Elopement, or the act of leaving a designated area without permission, can pose significant risks, especially for individuals who may not have the judgment to navigate their environment safely or may not understand potential dangers. Encouraging a game that could promote running away would heighten the possibility of elopement, creating an unsafe situation for the client.

In therapeutic practices, particularly in settings involving individuals with autism, the priority is always to ensure a safe and structured environment. Introducing a game that could lead to unpredictable behavior may undermine the effectiveness of interventions designed to manage elopement behavior. Safety protocols typically advocate for strategies that promote engagement while minimizing the risk of leaving safe spaces, rather than activities that could inadvertently encourage such behavior.

Consequently, options that suggest any form of chase, even with conditions such as monitoring, do not adequately address the inherent risks involved with elopement history. It is essential that activities are chosen with a focus on creating safe opportunities for learning and engagement rather than those that could compromise the client's well-being.