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A Long-Awaited Decision
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Two years after the Food and Drug Administration proposed banning electric shock devices used to address behavior issues in people with disabilities, the agency says a decision is near.
For disability rights advocates who have fought this battle for decades, the impending ban represents a major victory. For families seeking services for loved ones with developmental disabilities, it's a reminder to ask hard questions about how providers approach behavioral support.
What Are These Devices?
The devices in question—known as Graduated Electronic Decelerators (GEDs)—deliver electric shocks to the skin as a form of "aversive therapy" intended to reduce self-injurious or aggressive behaviors.
The shocks are:
- Delivered via electrodes worn on the body
- Triggered remotely by staff
- Described by the FDA as causing "pain, skin burns, and psychological trauma"
Only one facility in the United States is known to still use these devices: the Judge Rotenberg Educational Center in Canton, Massachusetts, which serves children and adults with developmental disabilities and emotional disorders.
Why the Ban Matters
Human Rights Concerns
The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture has called the use of these devices on people with disabilities a form of torture. Former residents have described:
- Being shocked for minor infractions like standing up without permission
- Receiving multiple shocks per day
- Lasting psychological trauma from the experience
Better Alternatives Exist
Modern behavioral support focuses on:
- Positive Behavior Support (PBS): Understanding why behaviors occur and addressing root causes
- Trauma-informed care: Recognizing that many challenging behaviors stem from past trauma
- Environmental modifications: Changing settings to reduce triggers
- Communication support: Helping people express needs without challenging behavior
- Skill building: Teaching replacement behaviors
Research consistently shows these approaches are more effective long-term than punishment-based methods—without the trauma.
Washington's Approach
Washington State has long prohibited the use of aversive interventions like electric shock in DDA-funded services. Providers must use positive behavioral support approaches.
The DSHS incident reporting system tracks any use of restrictive interventions, and providers using unauthorized methods face serious consequences including loss of certification.
What This Means for Washington Families
While Washington families are unlikely to encounter these devices, the FDA ban matters for several reasons:
1. It Sets a National Standard
Some families have sent loved ones out of state to facilities like the Judge Rotenberg Center when local options seemed inadequate. A federal ban would eliminate this option—but more importantly, it reinforces that humane alternatives exist and work.
2. It Validates Better Approaches
When federal regulators affirm that aversive methods are harmful and unnecessary, it strengthens the case for funding positive behavioral support services—the kind Washington providers already offer.
3. It's a Reminder to Ask Questions
When evaluating DDA providers, families should ask about behavioral support approaches:
Questions to ask:
- How do you handle challenging behaviors?
- What training do staff receive in positive behavior support?
- Do you use any form of physical restraint? Under what circumstances?
- How do you involve families in behavior support planning?
- What happens if a behavior support plan isn't working?
Red flags:
- Vague answers about "consequences" for behavior
- Emphasis on control rather than support
- Unwillingness to discuss specific approaches
- High use of physical restraints
Finding the Right Provider
Not all providers are equally skilled in behavioral support. When using CareCade's provider directory, look for:
Specialized Services
Some providers specifically serve people with complex behavioral needs. Filter by services to find providers offering:
- Behavior support services
- Community engagement with behavioral expertise
- Residential services with trained staff
Family Reviews
Our family rating system includes feedback on how providers handle challenging situations. Look for comments about:
- Staff patience and understanding
- Communication during difficult moments
- Proactive problem-solving
Verified Providers
CareCade Verified providers use our platform for documentation, which means:
- Real-time incident reporting
- Behavior tracking over time
- Family visibility into care
When families can see what's happening, harmful practices are less likely to go undetected.
The Broader Context
The FDA shock device ban comes amid broader debates about how society supports people with developmental disabilities:
- Medicaid funding pressures that may reduce available services
- Workforce shortages that strain existing providers
- Increasing demand as the I/DD population grows
In this environment, there may be temptation to cut corners on training or resort to restrictive practices. Families must remain vigilant advocates.
What You Can Do
Support the Ban
The FDA is accepting public comments. Share your support for banning these devices and your commitment to humane care approaches.
Advocate for Positive Supports
Contact your state legislators to ensure adequate funding for:
- Positive behavior support training for providers
- Behavioral health services for people with I/DD
- Crisis intervention alternatives
Choose Providers Carefully
Use resources like CareCade to research providers before committing. Ask questions. Trust your instincts.
Stay Informed
Join advocacy organizations that monitor disability rights:
The Bottom Line
The likely FDA ban on shock devices is a victory for human rights and evidence-based care. It affirms what Washington providers have long practiced: that people with developmental disabilities deserve support, not punishment.
As families navigate the complex world of DDA services, this ban is a reminder that you have the right to demand humane, effective care—and that better approaches exist.
Related Articles
- How Families Rate Washington DDA Providers
- Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disabilities in Washington
- Crisis Care and Involuntary Commitment: What Families Should Know
- Finding Verified Home Care Providers in Washington
CareCade helps Washington families find DDA providers committed to positive, person-centered care. Our Family Portal gives you visibility into your loved one's daily care—because transparency protects everyone.