Why Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is about more than just behaviour.
At JL Academy, we believe in empowering people to live fulfilling lives. PBS is not a simple approach to “fixing” problems; it’s a values-led, person-centred framework that seeks to understand the “why” behind every action.
Moving away from judging behaviour and towards understanding its purpose. The science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) teaches us that all behaviour serves a purpose:
To get a reaction from a carer, peer, or family member.
To get out of a difficult or undesirable situation, activity, or social demand.
To get a desired object, food, activity, or item.
To get a certain feeling or stimulation (e.g., rocking, humming).
Our expert-led training gives your team the confidence and competence to implement effective PBS strategies.
View Training CoursesPBS is built on a set of core principles that guide its practice:
PBS is fundamentally about the individual. It prioritises their unique needs, preferences, and goals, respecting their dignity and promoting their rights.
Instead of waiting for a challenging incident to occur, PBS focuses on preventing it by understanding triggers and teaching new skills.
PBS draws on the science of applied behaviour analysis and integrates it with a human rights and values-based approach, supported by a growing body of research.
A PBS plan is never a single action but a comprehensive framework of interventions:
Adapting the environment to make behaviour unnecessary.
Teaching effective skills (communication, coping).
Responding safely with a focus on de-escalation.
Get a practical overview of the PBS framework and how to apply its principles in your setting.
Get Your Free GuideWhen we understand the function of behaviour and proactively address underlying needs, we see a significant reduction in the reliance on restrictive interventions. This improves safety and fosters trust.
Ultimately, the goal of PBS is to teach new, more effective skills that serve the same function as the behaviour that challenges.
