Positive Behavior Support

Definition of Positive Behavior Support

Positive behavior support (PBS) is a values-based and empirically validated approach for resolving problem behaviors and helping people lead enhanced lives. This definition contains a number of components that warrant explanation. First, PBS is an approach or a process. It is not a particular technique, practice, or program but rather a framework to guide the selection and implementation of effective intervention strategies. Second, PBS is explicitly based on values. In particular, PBS employs strategies that are strengths based and respect the dignity, individuality, and autonomy of all participants. Third, PBS is grounded in applied research, with its intervention components being derived from the conceptual models and empirical findings of social, behavioral and biomedical science. The approach and individual practices of PBS are based on the basic, scientific principles of human behavior, as well as the collection of reliable and replicable data. Fourth, PBS is defined by the outcomes it seeks to achieve. PBS is committed to producing reductions in the occurrence and impact of problem behavior, accompanied by enhancements in the quality of life experienced by the recipients of the support.

In practice, PBS comprises

• 1.
  The collection and use of assessment data to develop individualized programs of intervention and support for a student, a family, a classroom, a school, or other entity of concern
• 2.
  The development of a multicomponent support plan that is based on the assessment data and includes, at a minimum

  • a.
    Strategies for altering the environment (e.g., schedule, activity patterns, curriculum) to prevent occurrence of problem behaviors
  • b.
    Strategies for developing (teaching) and sustaining adaptive behaviors that help participants engage more effectively with their social environment
  • c.
    Strategies for altering the environment so problem behaviors are not likely to be rewarded and desired behaviors are more likely to be followed by functional rewards
  • d.
    Strategies for adjusting service delivery systems so that they more effectively and efficiently support ongoing implementation of the plan
• 3.
  Collection of evaluation data for the purpose of documenting change and identifying aspects of the intervention that require additional assessment and modification

Although PBS is based on rich traditions of applied research, it is a recent development in the history of efforts to assist people whose lives are compromised by problem behaviors. In many respects, PBS can be seen as an approach that takes advantage of the validated benefits of its predecessors to create a broader set of strategies, based on increased understanding and designed to yield more comprehensive outcomes. The major focus of PBS has been on the needs of individuals, but recently, PBS has been applied to larger units of analysis, such as classrooms and entire schools. Still, regardless of the level at which PBS is considered, the fundamental components of the definition apply.