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Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) is person centred framework for delivering evidence based interventions to improve an individual’s quality of life. It is a way of working and supporting people whose behaviour significantly challenges others thereby limiting their life opportunities. PBS is an inclusive approach and seeks to support people to stay in their homes, schools and work environments. As such it offers a practical and compassionate alternative to the exclusion and isolation often experienced by people who engage in high levels of behaviour that challenges.
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The primary goal in PBS is to increase quality of life, not just to reduce challenging behaviour. This is because PBS recognises that all behaviour occurs for a reason and that often what are labelled "problem" behaviours are due to the absence of appropriate support. The research literature also shows that reducing challenging behaviour is best achieved by the creation of responsive and nurturing environments. This involves providing new opportunities for growth and human connection, rather than simply attempting to stop the problem. And this usually requires more than one type of intervention as it works by building and extending skills and understanding in those supporting the person.
For further information about PBS see - http://pbsacademy.org.uk/
“PBS is an approach that blends values about the rights of people with disabilities with a practical science about how learning and behaviour change occur. The overriding goal of PBS is to enhance quality of life for individuals and their support providers”
(Horner, p. 181, 1999)