A pattern interrupt is a technique used to disrupt repetitive behaviours, emotional escalation, or unhelpful thought processes. For individuals with conditions such as ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, or other vulnerabilities, pattern interrupts can help break cycles of heightened emotions, impulsive behaviours, or fixation. These techniques are especially useful in educational and care settings to promote calmness, refocus attention, and enable positive engagement.

Rooted in neuroscience and behavioural psychology, pattern interrupts provide a proactive and empathetic approach to managing challenging situations.

Why Pattern Interrupts Work

1. Disrupts Automatic Responses
   Many individuals experiencing distress or escalating behaviour act on autopilot, following ingrained patterns. Pattern interrupts force the brain to pause and reassess, breaking the escalation loop.
2. Engages Curiosity
   An unexpected stimulus or question can redirect focus and shift attention away from stressors or fixations.
3. Supports Emotional Regulation 
   By interrupting an emotional spiral, individuals are given the opportunity to regain control and stabilise their mood.
4. Creates Opportunities for Redirection
   After disrupting the pattern, educators or carers can guide the individual toward more constructive behaviours or calming strategies.

How Pattern Interrupts Work for Different Conditions

1. ADHD
   Individuals with ADHD often act impulsively or struggle with sustained focus. Pattern interrupts can redirect their attention and break cycles of frustration or overstimulation.
2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
   For individuals on the autism spectrum, pattern interrupts can help reduce fixation or repetitive behaviours, creating space for calming or engaging alternatives.
3. Anxiety Disorders
   During episodes of heightened anxiety, pattern interrupts can provide a pause in the emotional response, helping individuals shift away from overwhelming feelings.
4. Emotional or Behavioural Disorders
   Pattern interrupts can disrupt emotional outbursts or oppositional behaviours, allowing for de-escalation and redirection.

Pattern Interrupt Strategies

1. Ask an Unusual or Fun Question 
   Novel or lighthearted questions can break the focus on stressors and engage curiosity.  Example:
   • “If you could have any superpower, what would it be?”
   • “Quick! Name three things you can see that are blue.”
2. Introduce a Physical Task
   Physical activity helps release energy and refocus attention.  Example:
   • “Can you help me move these chairs to the other side of the room?”
   • “Let’s do three quick stretches—can you touch your toes faster than I can?”
3. Use Humour or Playfulness
   Light humour can reduce tension and create a sense of ease.  Example:
   • “Whoa, did I just see you move at the speed of light?”
   • “Is it just me, or did the classroom just get 10 degrees cooler because of you?”
4. Change the Tone or Pace
   A sudden shift in your tone or behaviour can surprise and engage. Example:
   • Whispering: “Let’s see who can use their quietest voice for the next minute.”
   • Speaking with exaggerated enthusiasm: “Wait, I have an idea—this might just be the greatest plan ever!”
5. Provide a Visual Distraction
   Visual stimuli can shift focus away from escalating emotions. Example:
   • Draw a silly face or shape on the board and ask, “What does this remind you of?”
   • Hold up an interesting object and ask, “What do you think this is for?”
6. Count or Focus on Numbers
   Counting tasks engage cognitive processes and create a calming rhythm. Example:
   • “Let’s count backwards from 20 together.”
   • “Can you find five objects in the room that are round?”
7. Shift the Environment
   Changing the physical setting can help break the pattern of distress. Example:
   • “Let’s take a walk to the library together and talk about it there.”
   • “Why don’t we step outside for some fresh air and reset?”

Best Practices for Using Pattern Interrupts

1. Be Creative and Adaptable
   Tailor your approach to the individual’s interests, preferences, and the context of the situation.
2. Stay Calm and Supportive
   Deliver the interruption in a composed and empathetic tone to avoid adding stress.
3. Use Empathy
   Acknowledge the individual’s feelings while gently redirecting their focus.
4. Follow Up with Positive Engagement 
   After the interruption, guide the individual toward a constructive or calming activity.

Practical Example

Scenario: A student with ADHD becomes frustrated during a group activity, raising their voice and refusing to participate.

1. Pattern Interrupt: 
   Carer or teacher calmly says, “Hey, quick question—if you could only eat one type of sweet for the rest of your life, what would it be?”
2. Outcome:
   The unexpected question redirects the student’s focus, encouraging them to think about something unrelated to their frustration.
3. Follow-Up:
   Once calm, the educator engages the student in a conversation about how to make the group activity more manageable, such as assigning them a specific role.

Advantages of Pattern Interrupts