Positive Behavior Support
Project Description:
Positive Behavior Support (PBS)Program is a package of evidence-based strategies used to improve the quality of life and decrease problem behaviors by teaching people new skills and alternative responses to replace challenging behaviors. This approach is positive, proactive and focuses on preventing challenging behaviors before they occur. It also supports the individual, in the environments where he or she learns, works, plays and lives. The core of PBS is person-centered planning. The needs, desires, and preferences of the individual are fundamental to all decisions that are made.
The purpose of the Positive Behavior Support Program is to build the states workforce capacity to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and co-existing disorders who have challenging behaviors. Capacity building is accomplished primarily through training and continuing education opportunities. We work very closely with providers throughout our state teaching them to assess challenging behaviors and develop positive behavior support plans. In addition to training, we also provide technical assistance and mentoring to help professionals find solutions for challenging behaviors and improve quality of life.
Additionally, short-term individual assistance to a limited number of individuals and families statewide who need help addressing challenging behaviors. The PBS team members work with the individual and their family to complete a functional behavior assessment and write a positive behavior support plan to address the challenging behaviors. The team also assists the family initialize environmental supports and teach appropriate alternatives to challenging behaviors. Having supports and alternative responses leads to improved quality of life and greater inclusion in the community.
Through training efforts and direct services provided to families, we will enhance the quality of life of West Virginians across the state who have challenging behaviors.
Keyword(s):
positive behavior support, training, challenging behaviors, person-centered
Core Function(s):
Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training, Other Direct/Model Services
Area of Emphasis
Quality Assurance, Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities, Quality of Life, Other
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
