Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred approach designed to improve quality of life while reducing challenging behaviours. It is widely used in disability services, mental health care, and educational settings to support individuals in achieving meaningful outcomes in a safe and respectful environment.

What Is Positive Behaviour Support?

Positive Behaviour Support combines evidence-based strategies, functional assessment, and proactive planning to understand why behaviours occur and how to support positive alternatives. Instead of focusing solely on managing negative behaviour, PBS emphasises skill-building, environment modification, and person-centred interventions.

Key Components of Positive Behaviour Support

1. Functional Behaviour Assessment
   Understanding the purpose behind behaviours to create effective, targeted interventions.

2. Person-Centred Planning
   Developing strategies tailored to the individual’s needs, preferences, and goals.

3. Proactive Strategies
   Changing environments, routines, and supports to prevent challenging behaviours.

4. Skill Development
   Teaching communication, social, and coping skills to enhance independence and wellbeing.

5. Data Monitoring and Review
   Collecting and analysing data to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and adjust strategies as needed.

Benefits of Positive Behaviour Support

• Improves quality of life and emotional wellbeing

• Reduces challenging behaviours safely and ethically

• Encourages independence and skill development

• Strengthens relationships between individuals and caregivers

• Promotes safer, more inclusive environments in homes, schools, and workplaces

Who Can Benefit from PBS?

PBS is effective for:

• Children and adults with disabilities

• Individuals with behavioural challenges

• People with mental health conditions

• Educational and care settings aiming for inclusive, supportive practices

Conclusion

Positive Behaviour Support focuses on understanding behaviour, creating supportive environments, and empowering individuals through skill development. By prioritising respect, choice, and person-centred strategies, PBS not only reduces challenging behaviours but also improves wellbeing and promotes independence for individuals in care settings.