What is Positive Behaviour Support? A Beginner’s Guide for Parents & Carers

If you’re a parent or carer of a child with additional needs, chances are you’ve heard of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). But what exactly is it, and how can it help your child and family? This guide will break down the basics of PBS and explain it's approach to supporting people with challenging behaviours.

What is Positive Behaviour Support?

Positive Behaviour Support is an evidence-based approach designed to improve a person’s quality of life while reducing behaviours of concern. It isn’t just about managing behaviour, it’s about understanding why the behaviour is happening in the first place and teaching better ways to meet those needs.

PBS is based on the same science as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). PBS applies the principles of ABA, including reinforcement, prompting, and skill teaching. PBS focuses strongly on improving quality of life, reducing restrictive practices, and supporting individuals in positive, respectful ways.

At its core, PBS is based on the idea that all behaviour has a purpose. Challenging behaviours often serve as a way for people to communicate something they may not have the words or skills to express - such as needing help, wanting to avoid something, or seeking sensory input.

How Does PBS Work?

PBS follows a structured, step-by-step process that includes:

1. Understanding the Behaviour - this involves observing and identifying what happens before, during, and after the behaviour. By understanding the “triggers” and consequences, professionals can find patterns.

2. Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) - a formal assessment is often completed to gather more in-depth information about the function (purpose) of the behaviour. This might include interviews, observations, and data collection.

3. Developing a Positive Behaviour Support Plan - the plan is personalised and designed to:

   • Reduce triggers that lead to challenging behaviour

   • Teach alternative, more appropriate behaviours

   • Adjust environments to make success easier

   • Provide positive reinforcement when helpful behaviours occur

4. Teaching New Skills - instead of simply telling a person what not to do, PBS focuses on building communication, social, and coping skills to replace challenging behaviours with positive ones.

5. Monitoring Progress - data and observations are used to monitor whether the plan is working and to adjust strategies as needed.

   
   

Where to Start

If you believe Positive Behaviour Support could benefit your child or family, we’re here to help. Our team specialises in developing personalised PBS plans that are practical, effective, and centred around your child’s unique needs and goals.

Contact us today to learn more about how Positive Behaviour Support can help your family. We’ll guide you through the process, answer your questions, and work with you to create a plan that promotes positive change at home and in the community.