In this solo episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker dismantles one of the most damaging labels we use in care, ⏱️ Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Why “attention seeking” is misunderstood01:18 – Sponsor: Carers Card UK01:49 – The science of attention as survival03:29 – How labels like “attention seeking” damage relationships05:28 – Attachment, trust, and why connection reduces anxiety07:19 – Everyday examples: when being ignored hurts more than being told off08:41 – Reframing: from attention seeking to connection seeking09:51 – Proactive strategies: predictability and scheduled connection10:30 – Real-world case study: harmful vs. helpful staff responses12:08 – Connect before you correct: practical scripts to use13:19 – Teaching adaptive ways to ask for attention14:18 – Meeting needs isn’t “rewarding bad behaviour” — it’s removing the reason for it15:24 – Building independence through secure attachment16:16 – Final challenge: reframe “attention seeking” for one week and notice the change 🎯 Why Listen to This Episode? This episode is for anyone who has ever rolled their eyes at “attention seeking behaviour” — and wants to understand the truth behind it. Parents will gain tools to respond to their children with empathy. Teachers will discover proactive strategies to reduce classroom disruptions. Carers will learn how connection can de-escalate distress and build trust. Instead of seeing behaviour as a problem, you’ll leave with the mindset and tools to see it as communication. 🔗 Connect with Us 📲 Instagram: @AbleTraining📲 LinkedIn: Able Training📲 TikTok: @AbleToCarePodcast🌐 Website: AbleHub.uk