PBS- If You Change the Environment, You Change the Behaviour
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We often look at behaviour as something within the person. But Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) reminds us: the environment plays a huge role in how someone feels, reacts, and copes.
Behaviour is shaped by context. And that means if we change the context, we often change the behaviour too.
🏠 What Do We Mean by “Environment”?
In PBS, the environment includes:
- Noise levels and lighting
- Room layout and escape routes
- Staff interactions and communication style
- Predictability of routines and availability of choices
When any of these are misaligned with a person’s needs, distress can build — and behaviours labelled “challenging” often follow.
🔧 Small Changes, Big Results
One person might be distressed by fluorescent lighting. Another may need visual schedules to reduce anxiety. Someone else might need a quiet space to decompress.
When we adapt the environment instead of trying to control the person, we’re more respectful — and often more effective.
📝 Show This Understanding in Tenders
Commissioners want to see that your service doesn’t just react to incidents — you adapt proactively.
- Describe how you adjust environments to reduce distress
- Give real examples of how small changes improved outcomes
- Explain how staff are trained to observe and respond to environmental triggers
This shows a deep understanding of behaviour — and a strong, rights-based approach.