What is Positive Behaviour Support – and Why it Works

Understanding how PBS can transform everyday life for people with disability

What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centered approach that looks beyond behaviours of concern to understand the why behind them. It’s not about quick fixes or punishment — it’s about improving quality of life, building skills, and creating supportive environments.

At Harper’s Health, we view behaviour as a form of communication. PBS helps us listen better.

How is PBS Different from Traditional Behaviour Management?

Traditional behaviour management often focuses on reducing or eliminating a behaviour. PBS goes deeper — aiming to understand what triggers the behaviour, why it’s happening, and how we can support the individual in a way that’s respectful, empowering, and sustainable.

Traditional Approach	PBS Approach
Focuses on stopping behaviour	Focuses on understanding behaviour
Uses consequences or rewards	Builds capacity and positive environments
Often adult-led	Person and family-centered

Who Can Benefit from PBS?

PBS can support people of all ages and abilities — particularly those with disability, developmental delays, or mental health conditions. Some common examples include:

• A child who becomes distressed at school transitions

• A teenager who struggles with emotional regulation

• An adult who experiences challenging behaviours due to sensory overload or unmet needs

PBS is especially helpful for individuals funded under the NDIS who require a Behaviour Support Plan as part of their support package.

What Does PBS Involve?

Working with a Behaviour Support Practitioner typically involves:

1. Initial Consultation & Assessment: Getting to know the person, their history, strengths, and needs.

2. Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA): Identifying the triggers, patterns, and purpose of behaviours.

3. Developing a Behaviour Support Plan: This outlines strategies to reduce restrictive practices, promote positive behaviours, and increase the person’s quality of life.

4. Collaboration & Capacity Building: Working closely with families, support workers, schools, and other providers to implement the plan consistently.

5. Ongoing Monitoring & Review: Behaviour change takes time — PBS involves checking in, adapting, and celebrating growth.
   

Real-Life Example (anonymised)

Liam is a 12-year-old student who would often lash out when transitioning from recess to the classroom. Through PBS, his practitioner identified that these behaviours were linked to sensory overload and anxiety about written tasks.

With small changes — a structured visual schedule, quiet time before class, and regular movement breaks — Liam’s distress decreased, and he began participating more confidently.

How PBS Aligns with NDIS Goals

PBS fits squarely within the NDIS’ goals of improving daily living skills and community participation. It helps individuals:

✔ Build self-regulation ✔ Feel safer and more understood ✔ Increase independence ✔ Reduce restrictive practices ✔ Improve relationships and engagement

How Harper’s Health Can Help

Our Behaviour Support Practitioners are experienced in supporting children, young people, and adults with a wide range of needs. We work closely with families, schools, and support teams to create plans that are practical, respectful, and effective.

👉 Learn more about our Behaviour Support services 👉 Refer or enquire here