Positive Behavior Support


Definition: A comprehensive set of strategies meant to redesign environments in such a way that problem behaviors are prevented or inconsequential, and to teach students new skills, making problem behaviors unnecessary.1

Schools with PBS systems in place teach school wide rules and routines to all students in order to prevent problem behaviors. They also put supports in place to prevent at-risk students from engaging in disruptive/destructive behaviors, and individualized systems in place for students exhibiting high risk behavior. (See chart) Supports for at risk and high risk kids near the top of the triangle include: social skills instruction, functional behavior assessments and behavior plans, self management programs, school based mentor programs, increased academic support, and alternatives to out of school suspension.

Chart image

Often, a major trigger for inappropriate behavior from at risk and high risk students is their inability to fit in and make friends with peers. Teasing, bullying, and being ignored, can cause kids to act out in an attempt to gain attention, even if that attention is negative. Implementing a Circle of Friends and involving at risk middle and high school students in extracurricular activities can be critical elements of support for kids with social and behavioral challenges. When kids feel that they are liked and have their “place” in school, they no longer feel the need to act out. In addition, staff learning teams promote an understanding of at risk behaviors and help adults generate strategies in working with these kids.

While PBS is not about any set, nicely packaged curriculum, Mary Schlieder's - With Open Arms: Creating School Communities of Support for Socially Challenged Kids Using Circle of Friends, Extracurricular Activities, and Staff Learning Teams can help provide an effective tool for your school´s PBS toolbox!