Intensive Interaction, Emotional Development and Emotional Well-Being

Abstract

Nind and Hewett's original articulation of Intensive Interaction drew primarily on theories of social and communication development within developmental psychology. Principles of caregiver-infant interaction were analysed and applied to the interactions of teachers and students with learning difficulties. Theories of emotional development were less influential. However the emotional dimension of learning has gained public attention in recent years in the UK and across the ‘Western’ world. This chapter is therefore timely in addressing the emotional aspects of Intensive Interaction focusing on theories of emotional development and well-being and their relevance for Intensive Interaction and similar approaches, including discussion of the extent to which they might be deemed ‘therapeutic’.