Psychology and Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS) are two important fields that intersect in understanding and improving human behaviour, especially in individuals who face challenges such as disabilities or behavioural disorders. Let me give you an overview of both concepts and how they work together.
1. Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. It covers a wide range of topics, including cognition, emotion, motivation, learning, and social behaviour. In the context of behaviour management, psychology offers insights into why people behave the way they do, considering biological, psychological, and social factors.
Key psychological principles that inform Positive Behaviour Support include:
- Behavioural theories (e.g., operant conditioning, reinforcement)
- Cognitive-behavioural models (e.g., understanding how thoughts influence behaviours)
- Developmental psychology (e.g., understanding how behaviour changes over time)
- Learning theory (e.g., how behaviour is acquired or modified)
2. Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS)
Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS) is a framework or approach aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals, particularly those with intellectual or developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or other behavioural challenges. PBS focuses on promoting positive behaviours rather than merely addressing negative or problematic behaviours. It is built on the following principles:
- Person-cantered: Tailored to the needs, preferences, and goals of the individual.
- Proactive: Preventing problematic behaviours by teaching new, positive skills and strategies.
- Functional: Understanding the function or purpose behind a behaviour (e.g., does the person want attention, avoid something, or seek sensory input?).
- Collaborative: Involves caregivers, educators, therapists, and other stakeholders in developing and implementing the support plan.
PBS draws heavily on applied behaviour analysis (ABA) principles, but it incorporates a more holistic, value-driven approach that emphasizes dignity, respect, and the enhancement of an individual’s overall well-being.
Key Components of Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS):
1. Assessment
Understanding the root causes of behaviour through functional behaviour assessments (FBA). This includes examining triggers, consequences, and environmental factors that influence behaviour.
2. Teaching and Skill-Building
Teaching new, more effective behaviours to replace problematic ones. This might involve teaching communication skills, social skills, self-regulation techniques, or coping strategies.
3. Environmental Modifications
Making changes to the person’s environment to reduce triggers and create opportunities for success. For example, adjusting routines, changing the physical setting, or altering social dynamics.
4. Positive Reinforcement
Reinforcing desired behaviours using rewards or incentives that are meaningful to the individual. This might include verbal praise, tokens, or access to preferred activities.
5. Data Collection and Monitoring
Tracking progress over time to see if the PBS plan is effective. This includes monitoring behaviour frequency, intensity, and the individual’s emotional well-being.
Connection Between Psychology and Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS)
Psychology provides the foundational theories and research that inform PBS interventions. For example:
- Learning theories such as reinforcement and punishment are used to shape behaviour in PBS, encouraging positive behaviour by reinforcing desirable actions.
- Cognitive-behavioural theories help individuals understand their thoughts and feelings, contributing to emotional regulation and problem-solving skills in PBS.
- Psychodynamic and developmental approaches influence how behaviours are understood in terms of an individual’s history, personality, and developmental stages, ensuring interventions are appropriate for different age groups or developmental levels.
How PBS Supports Positive Behaviour Change
Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS) aims to reduce challenging behaviours by emphasizing proactive, positive, and inclusive approaches. For example:
- Instead of focusing solely on stopping a behaviour (e.g., aggressive outbursts), PBS looks at what is causing the behaviour (e.g., frustration, communication difficulty) and addresses the root cause.
- Rather than using punitive measures (e.g., punishment for bad behaviour), PBS seeks to increase the frequency of positive behaviours by teaching alternative ways to communicate needs, regulate emotions, and engage with others.
Benefits of PBS in Psychology
- Improved quality of life: PBS promotes independence, social integration, and self-esteem by teaching individual’s ways to engage more effectively with their environment.
- Long-term success: By focusing on prevention and skill-building, PBS helps reduce the likelihood of future behavioural problems.
- Collaborative approach: PBS encourages collaboration among caregivers, educators, and professionals, leading to more consistent and holistic support.
Conclusion
Psychology and Positive Behaviour Supports (PBS) intersect to provide a well-rounded approach to understanding and improving behaviour. Psychology provides the theoretical basis for understanding the cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors that influence behaviour, while PBS applies these principles in real-world settings to promote positive, sustainable behaviour change. Together, they work towards enhancing the lives of individuals by fostering positive behaviours, improving social interactions, and increasing overall well-being.
Transform Life is a NDIS registered organisation that provide support for your autistic child, as well as support to you as a parent to best navigate the challenges your child and family face on a daily basis.
Book your consult with an experienced Therapist at Transform Life to explore how OT, PBS and Speech Therapy can support you and your family.
