Behaviour is part of how people communicate, respond, and interact with the world around them.
When behaviours become challenging or create barriers in everyday life, it is important to look deeper — not just at what is happening, but why it may be happening.
At Profiles WA, we believe Positive Behaviour Support begins with understanding the person behind the behaviour — their experiences, strengths, communication, environment, relationships, and goals.
Because every behaviour has a story.
Understanding Behaviour Beyond the Surface
Behaviour does not happen in isolation.
A person’s actions can be influenced by many factors, including:
- Communication needs
- Emotional wellbeing
- Previous experiences
- Environment
- Relationships
- Health and wellbeing
- Daily routines
- Support systems
By understanding these influences, Positive Behaviour Support focuses on creating meaningful change rather than simply responding to challenges.
What Is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred, evidence-based approach that aims to improve quality of life while reducing behaviours that may cause concern.
PBS focuses on understanding:
🌱 Why behaviours occur
🌱 What needs a person may be communicating
🌱 What supports may be helpful
🌱 How environments can better meet individual needs
The goal is not simply to change behaviour — it is to understand, support, and create opportunities for growth.
Understanding the Roots of Behaviour
Like a tree, what we see above the surface is only part of the story.
The branches and leaves may represent visible behaviour, but the roots represent the experiences, needs, emotions, and environments that influence a person.
Positive Behaviour Support explores these roots by asking:
- What is the person experiencing?
- What are they trying to communicate?
- What strengths already exist?
- What barriers can be reduced?
- What support will help them thrive?
Understanding comes before change.
The Role of Functional Behaviour Assessments
A Functional Behaviour Assessment helps develop a deeper understanding of behaviours and the reasons they may occur.
These assessments may explore:
- Strengths and abilities
- Communication preferences
- Triggers and patterns
- Environmental factors
- Support needs
- Skills that may help improve independence
The information gathered helps create practical recommendations that support the person, family, carers, and wider support network.
Creating Meaningful Behaviour Support Plans
A Behaviour Support Plan provides strategies designed around the individual.
An effective plan focuses on:
- Building skills
- Improving communication
- Supporting emotional regulation
- Increasing independence
- Strengthening relationships
- Creating safer and more supportive environments
The aim is long-term growth, not short-term solutions.
Supporting Families, Carers, and Communities
Positive change grows through connection.
Families, carers, support workers, and communities play an important role in supporting a person’s wellbeing.
A collaborative approach helps everyone better understand:
- The person’s needs
- Their strengths
- Helpful responses
- Practical support strategies
- Ways to encourage participation
When support networks grow stronger, individuals have greater opportunities to thrive.
Positive Behaviour Support and NDIS Participants
Positive Behaviour Support is often an important service for NDIS participants who require specialised strategies and support planning.
Profiles WA provides Positive Behaviour Support services in 📍 Perth and across Australia through telehealth.
Our approach focuses on dignity, respect, understanding, and meaningful outcomes.