The Hidden Causes of Attention-Seeking Behaviour

The Hidden Causes of Attention-Seeking Behaviour

From School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton by Beacon School Support

April 26, 2026 · 28 min · Season 1 · Episode 273

About this episode

This episode explores the hidden causes of attention-seeking behaviour in children and how to respond effectively using the PAIN framework.

Why do so many sensible school strategies fail, even when staff are trying their best? In this episode, you’ll learn why attention-seeking behaviour is often a misleading label - and why two pupils can show very similar behaviour for completely different reasons. Using the PAIN framework, you’ll discover how to look beneath the surface, identify the hidden drivers behind a child’s behaviour, and choose responses that actually match their needs. You’ll also learn why adult attention can change...

People in this episode

Hosts: Simon Currigan, Emma Shackleton

Topics covered

  • attention-seeking behaviour
  • school strategies
  • PAIN framework
  • child behaviour
  • educational psychology

Keywords

  • attention-seeking
  • behaviour management
  • school strategies
  • child psychology
  • educational support

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Beacon School Support

More episodes of School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton podcast page.