Working with or caring for a person with a complex disability sometimes includes issues around managing challenging behaviour. It is a common issue cited by carers and goals regarding behaviour are often at the forefront of people’s minds when planning.

Behaviour in itself is a form of communication. While it is often difficult for the carer, challenging behaviour is seen as a person’s way of communicating an unmet need.

It is important to acknowledge and respond to a person’s challenging behaviour to seek to meet the person’s needs and hopefully improve their quality of life.

Positive behaviour support focuses on the full picture of the person’s life. While behaviour is often the reason for referral, the support may or may not focus on the behaviour. The team providing support aims to find ways to better meet the needs of the person and teach skills for the future.

To learn more:

Positive Behaviour Support video clip – suitable for customers, families, carers and professionals.

Online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epjud2Of610&sns=em
Online: http://www.disability.wa.gov.au
Online: https://www.autismspectrum.org.au/pbs