Traditional responses to challenging behaviour

In the past society’s responses to challenging and complex behaviours have included imprisonment, torture and banishment from the community. Today, punishment is still a common response, whether it is prisons at the public level, or giving someone the cold shoulder at a personal level.

Some traditional techniques are still used today to try and manage the behaviour of people with disabilities, such as:

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• taking away desired objects

• locking away/secluding

• hitting

• physical restraint

• ignoring/shunning

• bribing (coercion).

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What Is Positive Behaviour Support?

Positive Behaviour Support is a modern approach to challenging behaviours. It has gained international acceptance and is being adopted by many organisations and government departments in the disability sector. Its goals are to assist a person to engage in less challenging behaviour and increase their quality of life.

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There are many effective strategies available within the positive behaviour support approach providing a variety of ways to respond to challenging behaviours. All strategies are based on a foundation of respect for the person involved. It is important to make a distinction between the person and the behaviour. Always look for positive ways to encourage appropriate behaviour, and avoid punishment or coercion. It is helpful to:

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• develop a positive rapport

• establish consistent routines

• remain calm and respond positively during a behaviour

• involve the person in discussing behaviour issues.

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Key Aspects of Positive Behaviour Support

Positive behaviour support is exactly what it sounds like – a supportive, positive approach to complex and challenging behaviour.

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Key aspects include:

• we shouldn’t try to control others, but offer support instead

• positive responses are better than coercion and punishment

• don’t just blame the person, look for wider causes in the environment

• look for the reason behind a behaviour (e.g. is there an unmet need?)

• every person has unique strengths and talents to offer

• everyone deserves respect, quality of life and effective services.

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References and further information

Association for Positive Behaviour Support