Tactical ignoring

Tactical ignoring, also known as planned ignoring, is a behavioral management strategy used in response to challenging behavior that seeks to receive attention or to gain a reaction from others. It is a commonly used strategy when the person displaying the attention seeking behavior would feel rewarded even by a negative response. An example of this is a cough or noise that is excessively loud in order to gain sympathy from work colleagues, loved ones and friends, which is still seen as desirable attention by the person.

Tactical ignoring can be one element of a behavior management plan when there are a variety of challenging behaviors being addressed. As such, it is a method of responding to a behavior, complemented by a positive reinforcement schedule and skill development in learning a more appropriate method of seeking attention.

Tactical ignoring can also be implemented when a group decides collectively to neglect responsibility for an action (or actions) it has taken, or which it refuses to take - which prove detrimental to a member of that group. Typically, the afflicted member of the group is vulnerable with low social standing, or is the victim of abuse and trauma. Inward conflict the individual espouses as a consequence of his or her traumatic history may be interpreted as "attention seeking" and condemned by the group. The victim of this kind of "tactical ignoring" is at an increased risk of suicide, with little consequence for its perpetrators who often operate with social impunity given the low social standing of the victim.