Challenging behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, disruptive conduct, and property destruction are commonly observed among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and present significant challenges for disability centers and residential care facilities. This study aimed to systematically review recent literature on staff strategies and environmental approaches used in handling challenging behaviors in disability service settings. Specifically, it examined the intervention strategies employed by staff, the environmental approaches utilized to reduce challenging behaviors, the challenges encountered by caregivers and support personnel, and the implications for disability care practice. A systematic literature review design was employed, drawing from peer-reviewed journal articles, doctoral dissertations, and scholarly publications published between 2020 and 2025. Selected studies were screened based on relevance and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. Findings revealed that staff strategies such as Positive Behavior Support, functional behavioral assessment, staff training, collaborative practice, individualized interventions, and trust-based relationships significantly contribute to the effective management of challenging behaviors. Environmental approaches including therapeutic architecture, room personalization, sensory regulation, contextual support, and residential environmental modifications were also found to improve behavioral outcomes, autonomy, and quality of life among individuals with disabilities. However, challenges such as staff burnout, emotional stress, resource limitations, inadequate training, difficulties in behavioral assessment, and concerns regarding psychotropic medication use continue to affect service delivery. The study concludes that the successful management of challenging behaviors requires an integrated, person-centered approach that combines staff competency development with supportive environmental interventions. The findings highlight the importance of continuous professional development, organizational support, therapeutic environmental design, and evidence-based practices to promote positive behavioral outcomes and enhance the quality of care in disability centers.

Keywords: challenging behaviors, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, disability centers, staff strategies, environmental approaches, positive behavior support, therapeutic environment, behavioral intervention, quality of life.