Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person centred framework for providing support in situations where there is, or there is a risk of, challenging behaviour.‘ Challenging behaviour’ is persistent behaviour that puts the physical safety of people at risk or that causes difficulties and limits a person’s ability to have a good life. Note: This does not include behaviours that are typically part of the autism spectrum such as ‘stimming’.

Behaviour is called ‘challenging’ because it challenges everyone who supports the person to understand why it is happening and to work together to find a solution.

PBS understands that challenging behaviour occurs for a reason and communicates important information about a person’s stress, distress and skill development.

Challenging behaviour happens as part of an interaction between three components (1) an individual, their current & past experiences and what they have learned (2) the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of other people in their lives & (3) the environments, communities and cultures they live in (e.g. Hastings et al, 2013). PBS addresses all of these areas. In many situations, it is likely that the demands of the person’s situation exceed their ability to cope positively.

The most important outcome in PBS is an improvement in a person’s quality of life. PBS understands that quality of life outcomes can only be defined by those people who are receiving support.

PBS is a blend of values & science. Key values include a commitment to providing support that

• Shows respect for diversity
• Promotes inclusion
• Increases choice
• Promotes equality of opportunity and human rights

PBS also uses evidence informed practice and data-based decision making.