Frequently Asked Questions

---

Positive behaviour support is a particular approach to working with neurodivergent and disabled individuals that aims to improve their quality of life while reducing challenging presentations and risks of harm.  When we improve quality of life, challenging presentations can reduce. This can involve changes to the environment, skill building for the participant, training for key stakeholders and parent coaching. 

 Harm is defined broadly as harm to self and/or harm to others. Some presentations are of such frequency, intensity and duration that the physical safety of the person or others is likely to be placed in serious jeopardy. It may also be harm caused to the person through emotional and financial abuse, exploitation and/or undue influence.  

 
A behaviour support plan is a document co-produced with the participant, their family and carers, and any support people that help address the needs of the participant.   

This may involve:

• Assessing for Restrictive Practices, with the aim to reduce or remove these were possible
• Assessing for Risks of harm, with the aim to reduce or remove these were possible
• Seeking to understand the needs of neurodivergent person or disabled person from their perspective and adapting the environment to meet these needs.
• Understanding and respecting neurodivergent communication styles.
• Understanding and accommodating individual sensory needs.
• Assisting in developing  self-advocacy and problem-solving skills.
• Validating participants'  feelings, helping them recognize their triggers, and assisting in      identifying calming strategies.
• Creating safety plans to respond when the participant is engaging in challenging presentations.

 ‘Restrictive Practice’ means any practice or intervention that has the effect of restricting the rights or freedom of movement of a person with disability, with the primary purpose of protecting the person or others from harm.  This may include seclusion, chemical restraint, mechanical restraint, physical restraint, and environmental restraint.   The Regulated Restrictive Practices Guide outlines NDIS providers’ obligations when implementing regulated restrictive practices.  

  
Behavior support that is neurodivergent-affirming focuses on understanding and accommodating individual neurological differences, recognizing that diverse ways of processing and interacting with the world are valid and valuable. One outcome of neurodivergent-affirming behaviour support is increased self-awareness and self-acceptance. By acknowledging and validating the unique experiences and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals, developing tools can help them develop a positive sense of identity and self-esteem. Additionally, neurodivergent-affirming approaches prioritize autonomy and agency, empowering individuals to participate actively in decision-making processes regarding their support and goals. This fosters a sense of empowerment and control over one's own life. Furthermore, neurodivergent-affirming behaviour support promotes a culture of inclusion and respect, creating environments where individuals feel understood, valued, and supported for who they are, ultimately leading to greater overall well-being and success.