Positive Behavior Support
Overview
Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a research-based approach to improving an individual's quality of life and reducing problematic behavior. It is used in various settings, including schools, homes, and community environments. The approach is based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), which involves understanding the relationship between behavior and the environment.
Principles
PBS is guided by several key principles. These include the belief that all behavior serves a purpose, that behavior is influenced by the environment, and that teaching appropriate behaviors can replace problematic ones. These principles are rooted in the science of behavior, and they guide the development of strategies for supporting positive behavior.
Purpose of Behavior
In PBS, it is believed that all behavior serves a purpose. This is known as the function of behavior. Behaviors may serve to gain attention, escape from difficult tasks, or gain access to desired items or activities. Understanding the function of behavior is critical in developing effective support strategies.
Environmental Influence
Another key principle of PBS is that behavior is influenced by the environment. This includes both the physical environment and the social environment. Changes in the environment can lead to changes in behavior. Therefore, modifying the environment can be an effective strategy for supporting positive behavior.
Teaching Appropriate Behaviors
PBS also involves teaching appropriate behaviors to replace problematic ones. This is based on the belief that individuals engage in problematic behavior because they lack the skills to engage in more appropriate behavior. Teaching these skills can reduce the occurrence of problematic behavior.
Process
The process of implementing PBS involves several steps. These include conducting a functional behavior assessment, developing a behavior support plan, implementing the plan, and monitoring progress.
Functional Behavior Assessment
The first step in the PBS process is conducting a functional behavior assessment (FBA). This involves gathering information about the individual's behavior and the circumstances in which it occurs. The goal of the FBA is to identify the function of the behavior, or the purpose it serves for the individual.
Behavior Support Plan
Based on the results of the FBA, a behavior support plan is developed. This plan outlines the strategies that will be used to support positive behavior. It includes strategies for modifying the environment, teaching new skills, and responding to behavior.
Implementation
Once the behavior support plan is developed, it is implemented. This involves putting the strategies into practice in the individual's daily life. It may involve changes to the physical environment, changes to the individual's routine, and teaching new skills.
Monitoring Progress
The final step in the PBS process is monitoring progress. This involves collecting data on the individual's behavior to determine if the strategies are effective. If progress is not being made, the plan may need to be revised.
Applications
PBS has been applied in a variety of settings, including schools, homes, and community environments. It has been used to support individuals of all ages, from young children to adults.
Schools
In schools, PBS is often used to improve student behavior and create a positive learning environment. It is often implemented as a school-wide approach, known as School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS). In this approach, all students are taught expected behaviors, and those who struggle with behavior receive additional support.
Homes
In homes, PBS can be used to support positive behavior and reduce problematic behavior. This may involve teaching new skills, modifying the home environment, and changing the way family members respond to behavior.
Community Environments
PBS can also be applied in community environments, such as group homes, residential facilities, and community programs. In these settings, PBS can be used to support individuals in developing the skills they need to participate in community life.
Criticisms and Controversies
While PBS has been shown to be effective in many cases, it is not without its criticisms and controversies. Some critics argue that PBS is too focused on controlling behavior, rather than understanding and addressing the underlying issues that lead to problematic behavior. Others argue that PBS does not adequately consider the individual's perspective, and that it can be overly reliant on external rewards and punishments.
Conclusion
Despite these criticisms, PBS remains a widely used and respected approach to supporting positive behavior. Its emphasis on understanding the function of behavior, modifying the environment, and teaching new skills provides a comprehensive approach to behavior support. As with any approach, it is important to consider the individual's unique needs and circumstances when implementing PBS.