(The effectiveness of) Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a comprehensive, evidence-based approach designed to improve quality of life and decrease challenging behaviours for individuals across all age groups. It is widely used in Australia, particularly for people with disabilities, autism, and behavioural challenges, under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of PBS, with real-life cases, professional insights, and outcome-based strategies tailored for children, adolescents, and adults.
Whether you are a caregiver, educator, or healthcare professional in Victoria (VIC), including Melbourne and surrounding regions, this guide is your go-to resource for implementing PBS strategies effectively.
What is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred framework that combines behavioural science with values-based practices. It focuses on:
Understanding why a behaviour occurs (functional behaviour assessment).
Reducing challenging behaviours by teaching alternative skills.
Improving overall well-being by enhancing social, emotional, and physical environments.
Unlike traditional behaviour management approaches, PBS prioritizes long-term changes by identifying the root causes of behaviours and implementing proactive strategies.
Key Principles of PBS
Person-centred: Tailored to the individual’s needs, preferences, and goals.
Proactive, not reactive: Focused on preventing challenging behaviours before they occur.
Evidence-based: Grounded in behavioural science and clinical research.
Holistic: Considers all aspects of a person’s life, including social, emotional, and environmental factors.
PBS for Different Groups
1. PBS for Children and Adolescents with Autism or Down Syndrome
Children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Down Syndrome often experience communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and social difficulties. PBS strategies can help them learn alternative behaviours and improve social interaction.
Common Challenges
Difficulty expressing needs and emotions.
Sensory overload leading to meltdowns.
Social anxiety and withdrawal.
PBS Strategies
| Challenge | PBS Strategy | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty communicating | Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools | Improved communication and reduced frustration |
| Sensory sensitivities | Sensory-friendly environments and sensory breaks | Decreased meltdowns and increased engagement |
| Social interaction issues | Social skills training and peer support groups | Enhanced social confidence and participation |
Case Example: Sarah, a 10-year-old with ASD in Melbourne, frequently exhibited self-injurious behaviour during transitions at school. After implementing PBS strategies, including visual schedules and sensory breaks, her challenging behaviours decreased by 60% within three months, and she became more engaged in class activities.
2. PBS for Adults with Disabilities
Adults with physical or intellectual disabilities may face barriers to independence, employment, and social inclusion. PBS can empower them to achieve their goals by teaching life skills and fostering supportive environments.
Common Challenges
Limited access to employment and community activities.
Difficulty managing emotions and stress.
PBS Strategies
| Challenge | PBS Strategy | Expected Outcome |
| Limited access to opportunities | Partnership with community organizations in VIC and Melbourne | Increased community involvement and independence |
| Stress and anxiety | Mindfulness training and coping skills education | Improved emotional regulation and well-being |
Case Example: John, a 25-year-old with an intellectual disability, was struggling with anxiety at his workplace in Ballarat, VIC. Through PBS interventions, including relaxation techniques and on-the-job support, John became more confident and retained his employment for over a year.
3. PBS for Children and Adolescents with Behavioural Issues
Children and adolescents with behavioural issues may display aggression, defiance, or hyperactivity. PBS can help address these behaviours by teaching coping strategies and improving their environment.
Common Challenges
Aggressive outbursts.
Difficulty following instructions.
Impulsivity and hyperactivity.
PBS Strategies
| Challenge | PBS Strategy | Expected Outcome |
| Aggression | Conflict resolution training and positive reinforcement | Reduced aggressive incidents |
| Difficulty following instructions | Use of clear, concise instructions and visual aids | Improved compliance and task completion |
| Impulsivity | Structured routines and self-monitoring tools | Increased self-control and focus |
Case Example: Tom, a 12-year-old with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) in a Melbourne school, exhibited frequent defiance at school. With a PBS plan involving token reinforcement and regular feedback, his incidents of defiance decreased by 40% in two months.
Implementing PBS in Different Settings
1. PBS in Schools
Goal: Create a positive learning environment where all students can thrive.
Key Strategies:
Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBAs) to identify triggers.
Reward systems to reinforce positive behaviours.
Collaboration with families to ensure consistency.
PBS is widely adopted in schools across Melbourne and regional VIC, with significant success in reducing disruptive behaviours and improving academic engagement.
2. PBS at Home
Goal: Foster a supportive and nurturing home environment.
Key Strategies:
Clear rules and expectations.
Positive reinforcement for desirable behaviours.
Use of visual aids and schedules.
Families in VIC, including those accessing NDIS-funded support services, have reported positive outcomes after adopting PBS strategies.
3. PBS in Community Settings
Goal: Promote social inclusion and independence.
Key Strategies:
Social skills training in real-life settings.
Support groups and community programs.
Local community centres in Melbourne and Ballarat often collaborate with NDIS providers to offer PBS-based programs, fostering a sense of belonging for participants.
Measuring the Effectiveness of PBS
The success of a PBS plan can be evaluated through:
Behavioural data: Tracking the frequency and intensity of challenging behaviours.
Goal attainment: Assessing whether personal and social goals are being met.
Quality of life improvements: Evaluating changes in the individual’s overall well-being.
Example of Data Tracking Table:
| Date | Behaviour Observed | Trigger Identified | Intervention Used | Outcome |
| 01/01/2025 | Aggressive outburst | Change in routine | Visual schedule | No further incidents that day |
| 02/01/2025 | Refusal to complete task | Task difficulty | Task breakdown and reward | Completed task successfully |
Conclusion
Positive Behaviour Support is a powerful approach that can transform the lives of individuals with behavioural challenges and disabilities. By addressing the underlying causes of behaviours and implementing person-centred, proactive strategies, PBS fosters lasting positive change.
This guide has outlined comprehensive strategies, real-life cases, and tailored solutions for various groups, helping caregivers, educators, and professionals implement PBS effectively. With continued commitment and collaboration, we can create supportive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
FAQs on Positive Behaviour Support
What is the primary goal of PBS? The primary goal is to improve quality of life and reduce challenging behaviours through proactive and person-centred strategies.
How long does it take to see results with PBS? Results vary depending on the individual and the consistency of the intervention, but significant improvements are often observed within a few months.
Is PBS covered by the NDIS in Australia? Yes, PBS is funded under the NDIS for eligible participants who require behaviour support services.
References
NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators
NDIS Practice StandardsAustralian Government Department of Social Services
Department of Social ServicesPositive Behaviour Support Capability Framework
PBS Capability Framework PDFNDIS Behaviour Support Resources
Behaviour Support Information