<p>The aggression of people with learning disabilities presents a difficult challenge to service providers (Black et al 1997). Aggression towards self, others or property has negative consequences for the client, carers and family, including risk of physical injury (Spreat et al 1986), high levels of stress for families and staff (Quine and Pahl 1985) and the breakdown of residential placements (Borthwick-Duffy et al 1987). Staff working with people with learning disabilities are at significantly greater risk of being assaulted during their working lives (McKenzie et al 2000), with greater prevalence in inpatient units (Harris 1993).</p>