Positive Behaviour Support implementation in Australia
Summary
For many people with disability, behaviour support is vital to effective service delivery. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is highly recommended as an approach to managing challenging behaviours as it focuses on addressing the underlying causes of the behaviours while striving to improve the individual's quality of life. In Australia, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) explicitly funds PBS for the development of individualised behaviour support plans. Despite the prominence of PBS, its implementation and associated policies dictated by the NDIS have generated considerable concern. The true intention and values of PBS contrasts starkly with reported implementations. This research will explore PBS implementation in Australia and how implementation science can support the translation of PBS principles into practice. This study will employ a mixed-methods design, combining a scoping review with online surveys and interviews.
Impact
To date, a small body of literature exists which examines barriers and facilitators to the implementation of effective PBS. Specifically, researchers have identified systemic challenges, including significant skill gaps within the current workforce, as well as limitations inherent in the existing regulatory framework, current PBS practice, and service delivery models. Deep exploration combined with implementation science theory will inform future recommendations and framework development for the implementation of PBS specifically within the NDIS. A marked increase in the quality of PBS implementation could have profound impacts on the NDIS participants quality of life. In addition, this research could be instrumental in guiding and shaping the use of PBS outside of the NDIS landscape and enabling the benefits of effective PBS to extend across a multitude of diverse environments and contexts.
Project Details
Timeframe
Due for submission early 2032
Publications
Publications will be posted here when available.