For many families and carers, managing challenging behaviours can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s aggression, self-injury, or difficulty coping with change, these behaviours often arise from unmet needs or communication challenges. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises this and funds Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) as a specialised service designed to help participants live safer, more fulfilling lives.
In this guide, we’ll break down what PBS actually is, why it matters, and the key strategies that make it effective for NDIS participants. If you’ve ever searched for positive behaviour support strategies explained, this is the practical resource you need.
What Is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an evidence-based approach focused on improving quality of life while reducing behaviours of concern. Instead of simply managing behaviour with short-term fixes, PBS looks deeper: Why is the behaviour happening? What need is it meeting?
PBS involves:
- Conducting functional behaviour assessments (FBA).
- Identifying triggers, patterns, and underlying needs.
- Designing proactive, person-centred strategies.
- Supporting families, carers, and support workers with training.
The ultimate goal is not to eliminate behaviour but to replace harmful behaviours with safe, positive alternatives that achieve the same purpose.
Why PBS Matters Under the NDIS
Challenging behaviours can affect every aspect of a participant’s life — from schooling and social participation to safety and independence. For families and carers, the stress can be immense.
The NDIS funds PBS under Improved Relationships because:
- It reduces the need for restrictive practices.
- It promotes inclusion and participation in community life.
- It empowers participants with coping strategies.
- It improves relationships between participants, families, and support workers.
By addressing the root causes of behaviour, PBS paves the way for long-term progress.
Key Positive Behaviour Support Strategies
1. Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
The foundation of PBS is understanding the function of behaviour. An FBA explores questions like:
- What triggers the behaviour?
- What does the participant gain from it (attention, escape, sensory input)?
- What environmental factors contribute?
Example: A child hitting during transitions may be seeking to avoid overwhelming situations. With this knowledge, strategies can be built to support smoother transitions.
2. Proactive Environment Adjustments
Changing the environment can often reduce behaviours before they occur. Strategies include:
- Providing clear visual schedules.
- Reducing sensory overload (e.g., noise or lighting).
- Offering structured routines with flexibility for choice.
These adjustments reduce anxiety and help participants feel safe and in control.
3. Teaching Replacement Skills
Instead of simply saying “don’t do that,” PBS teaches new skills that serve the same function as the behaviour of concern.
- Teaching communication skills (using words, AAC devices, or signs).
- Building coping strategies like deep breathing or requesting breaks.
- Encouraging problem-solving and decision-making.
Example: A participant who screams for attention may learn to tap a caregiver’s shoulder or use a communication card instead.
4. Reinforcement of Positive Behaviour
Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of PBS. This involves recognising and rewarding desired behaviours consistently.
- Verbal praise (“Great job using your words!”).
- Tangible rewards like stickers or extra playtime.
- Social reinforcement (smiles, high-fives).
Reinforcement increases the likelihood of positive behaviour being repeated.
5. Crisis Management Strategies
While PBS focuses on prevention, it also prepares carers for when behaviours escalate.
- De-escalation techniques (calm voice, giving space).
- Safety plans to protect the participant and others.
- Step-by-step protocols to reduce harm.
Importantly, these are used alongside long-term strategies to prevent reliance on crisis responses.
6. Ongoing Monitoring and Review
PBS is not a “set and forget” approach. Regular monitoring ensures strategies remain effective as participants grow and their needs change. Therapists collect data, adjust plans, and provide ongoing support to families and staff.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Behaviour Support
Interestingly, PBS can also connect with other allied health services like physiotherapy under the NDIS. For some participants, challenging behaviours may stem from pain, discomfort, or unmet physical needs. Physiotherapy helps by:
- Managing pain through tailored exercise programs.
- Improving mobility, which reduces frustration.
- Enhancing sensory regulation through movement-based activities.
By integrating physiotherapy with behaviour support, participants receive holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Benefits of PBS for NDIS Participants and Families
- Reduced stress for families and carers.
- Increased independence and skill-building for participants.
- Safer, more supportive environments.
- Stronger relationships within families and communities.
- Long-term reduction in behaviours of concern.
Final Thoughts
Positive behaviour support strategies are about more than managing behaviour — they’re about creating meaningful change. By identifying triggers, teaching replacement skills, and reinforcing positive behaviours, PBS empowers participants to thrive in everyday life. Combined with services like physiotherapy, PBS supports holistic growth and wellbeing under the NDIS.
Need expert support with Positive Behaviour Support or physiotherapy under the NDIS? Framer Health offers integrated allied health services designed to meet the unique needs of every participant.
Book a consultation with Framer Health today and take the first step toward safer, more confident living.
