Behaviour support systems are essential tools used in psychology to help individuals manage their behaviour effectively. Whether you are a psychology student, a patient, or someone interested in learning about psychological strategies, understanding these systems can be beneficial. Let’s dive into the key aspects of behaviour support systems.

What Are Behaviour Support Systems?

Behaviour support systems are structured approaches designed to promote positive behaviour and reduce challenging behaviours. They can be applied in various settings, including schools, homes, and healthcare facilities.

Types of Behaviour Support Systems

1. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

• Focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviours.
• Often used in schools to create a supportive learning environment.
• Example: Rewarding students for good behaviour with points that can be exchanged for privileges.

2. Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)

• Involves identifying the reasons behind challenging behaviours.
• Helps in developing tailored interventions.
• Example: Observing a child who acts out in class to determine if they seek attention or escape tasks.

3. Crisis Prevention and Intervention

• Aimed at managing crises and preventing escalation.
• Includes strategies like de-escalation techniques.
• Example: Staff trained to handle aggressive behaviour through calming techniques.

Categories of Behaviour Support Systems

Behaviour support systems can be categorized based on their application and focus:

• Individual Support Plans: Tailored to meet the specific needs of an individual, often created with input from caregivers and professionals.
• Group Interventions: Designed for a group setting, such as classrooms, focusing on building a positive culture.
• Policy Level: Systems implemented at an organizational or community level to promote positive behaviours across a broader spectrum.

Steps to Implement a Behaviour Support System

1. Assessment

• Conduct a thorough assessment to understand the individual's needs and behaviours.

2. Goal Setting

• Establish clear, measurable goals for behaviour change.

3. Intervention Planning

• Develop an intervention plan that includes strategies for teaching positive behaviours.

4. Implementation

• Put the plan into action while ensuring consistency across settings.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Regularly check progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure effectiveness.

Real-Life Examples of Behaviour Support Systems

• In Schools: A school might implement a PBS program that rewards students for attending class, completing assignments, and showing respect to peers. This encourages a better learning environment.

• In Healthcare: A mental health facility may use FBAs to understand patients' behaviours during therapy sessions. By identifying triggers, staff can tailor their approaches to meet individual needs.

• In Homes: Parents might adopt a behaviour support system that includes a reward chart for children. By tracking good behaviours at home, children learn to associate positive actions with rewards.

Conclusion

Behaviour support systems play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their behaviours and improve their overall quality of life. By understanding the various types, categories, and implementation steps, anyone can appreciate the value of these systems in psychological practice.