2.1 Strategies that could be used to support positive behaviour

This guide will help you with answers for NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour that Challenges 2.1 Strategies that could be used to support positive behaviour.

When working in health and social care, supporting positive behaviour is important, especially when dealing with individuals exhibiting challenging behaviour. This section aims to provide you with detailed methods to promote positive behaviour, reduce disruptive actions, and create a safe and supportive environment for all. As a support worker, you play a key role in implementing these strategies effectively.

Awareness of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred approach focused on improving quality of life for individuals while reducing challenging behaviour. It relies on understanding why behaviour occurs and addressing these reasons rather than just the behaviour itself.

Key Principles of PBS:

1. Person-centred care: Tailor interventions to the individual’s needs, preferences, and circumstances.
2. Understanding behaviour: Identify the triggers and functions of challenging behaviour.
3. Proactive measures: Implement strategies that prevent challenging behaviour.
4. Respect and dignity: Ensure all interactions uphold the individual’s rights and dignity.

Strategies for Supporting Positive Behaviour

Implementing strategies that support positive behaviour can transform the care and environment for individuals. Here are several approaches you can employ:

1. Building Strong Relationships

Developing a trusting and supportive relationship is fundamental. This involves:

• Consistently showing respect and empathy.
• Listening actively to their needs and concerns.
• Gaining insight into their likes, dislikes, and triggers.

2. Creating a Positive Environment

A well-organised and positive environment can reduce stress and prevent challenging behaviour.

• Ensure the environment is safe, comfortable, and free from unnecessary distractions.
• Use visual aids and structured schedules to provide clarity and predictability.
• Promote a calm atmosphere through decor, lighting, and reduced noise levels.

3. Active Communication

Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and supports positive behaviour.

• Use simple, clear language, appropriate to the individual’s understanding level.
• Utilise non-verbal communication methods like gestures, pictures, or sign language if necessary.
• Confirm understanding by having the individual repeat instructions back to you.

4. Consistent Routines

A predictable routine can provide a sense of security and reduce anxiety.

• Develop a daily schedule that includes time for activities, meals, and rest.
• Ensure transitions between activities are smooth and communicated in advance.
• Use visual timetables to help individuals understand the day’s structure.

5. Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement encourages desirable behaviour by rewarding it.

• Offer praise, attention, or tangible rewards immediately after positive behaviour.
• Be specific about what behaviour is being rewarded to reinforce the action.
• Ensure rewards are meaningful to the individual.

6. Skill Development

Teaching new skills can reduce the incidence of challenging behaviour.

• Develop social, communication, and coping skills through targeted activities.
• Use role-playing and social stories to practice and reinforce new skills.
• Provide opportunities for choice-making and decision-making.

7. Crisis Intervention Plans

Having a clear plan for dealing with challenging behaviour when it occurs is essential.

• Develop individual crisis plans detailing specific interventions and actions.
• Train all staff on the implementation of these plans.
• Review and update the plans regularly to reflect any changes in behaviour patterns.

8. Reflective Practice

Reflecting on your interactions and techniques can help improve support strategies.

• Regularly review and assess the effectiveness of your approaches.
• Engage in discussions with colleagues and supervisors to gain feedback.
• Keep detailed records of what works and what doesn’t.

Approaches to Specific Challenging Behaviours

Different challenging behaviours may require varied and specific strategies.

1. Aggression

Managing aggression involves de-escalation techniques and creating a safe environment.

• Use calming techniques such as speaking softly and maintaining a non-threatening posture.
• Provide physical space to prevent crowding.
• Teach and reinforce anger management and coping strategies.

2. Self-injury

Supporting individuals who self-injure requires understanding the underlying causes.

• Identify triggers and develop proactive measures to avoid these situations.
• Provide alternative methods for dealing with stress or pain.
• Ensure a safe environment to minimise the risk of serious harm.

3. Disruption

Disruptive behaviour often seeks attention or indicates unmet needs.

• Ignore minor disruptions while reinforcing positive behaviour.
• Provide structured activities and engage the individual in meaningful tasks.
• Use visual cues and reminders to keep the individual on task.

Involving Families and Carers

Engaging families and carers in the support process can enhance outcomes.

• Collaborate with families to understand the individual’s history and triggers.
• Share strategies and techniques that work well at home and in the care setting.
• Provide training and resources to help families support positive behaviour.

Training and Professional Development

Continuous professional development ensures you’re equipped with the latest strategies.

• Attend workshops and training sessions on behaviour management.
• Keep up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in PBS.
• Participate in peer support groups to share experiences and strategies.

Final Thoughts

Supporting positive behaviour requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. By understanding the principles of PBS, building strong relationships, creating a positive environment, and employing these strategies, you can effectively support individuals exhibiting challenging behaviour. Remember, the goal is to improve their quality of life while promoting a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Example answers for unit 2.1 Strategies that could be used to support positive behaviour

Example 1:
To support positive behaviour, I’ve established strong relationships with the individuals I work with. For instance, I make an effort to learn about their interests and preferences. By doing so, I can tailor activities that engage them and reduce the likelihood of challenging behaviours. I actively listen to their concerns and show genuine empathy, which has helped build trust and rapport.

Example 2:
Creating a positive environment is another strategy I use. I ensure that the spaces where we spend time are safe, comfortable, and free from unnecessary distractions. I also utilise visual aids, like schedules and reminders, to provide clarity and predictability. This helps individuals feel more secure and less anxious, which in turn supports positive behaviour.

Example 3:
Communication plays an important role in supporting positive behaviour. I always use clear and simple language that suits the individual’s level of understanding. Also, I incorporate non-verbal communication methods, such as gestures or pictures, especially with those who have limited verbal skills. By confirming their understanding, I reduce the risk of misunderstandings and frustration.

Example 4:
Implementing consistent routines is really important. I develop a daily schedule for the individuals that includes time for activities, meals, and rest. Transitions between activities are communicated well in advance to prevent anxiety. I also use visual timetables to help individuals understand the structure of their day, which promotes a sense of security and helps manage their behaviour.

Example 5:
I also rely on positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviour. Whenever an individual displays positive behaviour, I immediately offer praise and attention or sometimes a tangible reward. It’s important to be specific about what behaviour I’m rewarding to make sure they understand. The rewards are tailored to be meaningful to each individual, which makes this approach more effective.

Example 6:
When dealing with challenging behaviours, having a crisis intervention plan is essential. I’ve developed personalised plans for each individual, which detail specific steps to take during a crisis. I ensure that all staff are trained on these plans and we regularly review and update them based on any changes in behaviour patterns. This proactive approach helps us manage crises more effectively while ensuring the safety and dignity of everyone involved.