Understanding Positive Behavioural Support (PBS)

What is the primary aim of Positive Behavioural Support (PBS)?

• To ignore challenging behaviour

• To find the meaning behind a person's behaviour and help them find other ways to achieve what they want

• To isolate individuals with challenging behaviour

• To punish challenging behaviour

Answer explanation

The primary aim of Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) is to understand the reasons behind a person's behaviour and to assist them in finding alternative ways to meet their needs, rather than ignoring, isolating, or punishing them.

What does PBS primarily use to describe, predict, and change behaviour?

• Hypnotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Psychoanalysis

• Applied Behavioural Analysis

Answer explanation

PBS primarily uses Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) to describe, predict, and change behavior. ABA focuses on understanding behavior through observation and modifying it through reinforcement techniques.

What is a key component of a PBS plan?

• Medication plans

• Strategies for avoiding things that distress the person

• Isolation techniques

• Punishments for challenging behaviour

Answer explanation

A key component of a PBS plan is to implement strategies for avoiding things that distress the person, as this helps prevent challenging behaviors and promotes a positive environment.

What percentage of those who would benefit from PBS are estimated to actually receive it?

• Less than 40%

• Less than 10%

• Less than 30%

• Less than 20%

Answer explanation

Research indicates that less than 20% of those who would benefit from PBS actually receive it, highlighting significant gaps in access and support for eligible individuals.

What is the main focus of PBS?

• Reducing the workload of carers

• Increasing the number of rules and restrictions

• Improving the quality of life of the person and those around them

• Focusing solely on the individual's behaviour

Answer explanation

The main focus of PBS is to improve the quality of life for individuals and those around them, rather than just reducing workload or increasing restrictions. This holistic approach benefits everyone involved.

Which of the following is NOT a technique used in PBS?

• Punitive measures

• Speech and language therapy

• Psychological therapies

• Occupational therapy

Answer explanation

PBS (Positive Behavior Support) focuses on proactive strategies to improve behavior, not punitive measures. Techniques like speech and language therapy, psychological therapies, and occupational therapy are supportive, while punitive measures are contrary to PBS principles.

What is the purpose of collecting information in PBS?

• To compare individuals

• To create a punishment plan

• To create a competition among carers

• To understand the purpose of the behaviour

Answer explanation

The purpose of collecting information in PBS is to understand the purpose of the behaviour. This helps in developing effective strategies to address and support individuals rather than focusing on punishment or competition.

What is the role of PBS specialists?

• To provide medication

• To work alone without involving others

• To involve the person, their carers, family, and support staff

• To focus only on the individual's past

Answer explanation

PBS specialists play a crucial role in involving the individual, their carers, family, and support staff in the care process, ensuring a collaborative approach rather than working in isolation or focusing solely on the past.

What is a common misconception about challenging behaviour?

• It is always intentional

• It is the most effective way an individual currently has to get their needs met

• It is always aggressive

• It is a sign of mental illness

Answer explanation

A common misconception is that challenging behaviour is always intentional or aggressive. In reality, it often reflects the most effective way an individual has to meet their needs, highlighting the importance of understanding their perspective.

What is the ethical stance of PBS?

• It is a punitive approach

• It is based on opinions and hearsay

• It is a respectful and ethical approach

• It is a temporary solution

Answer explanation

PBS promotes a respectful and ethical approach, focusing on positive behavior support rather than punishment or temporary fixes. This stance emphasizes understanding and addressing the needs of individuals.