Understanding Behaviour in Supported Living: A PBS Assessment Approach
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Behaviour is a form of communication — but in Supported Living, it can be easy for teams to focus on what the behaviour looks like instead of what it means. PBS shifts the lens to unmet needs, triggers and environmental factors. To explore related topics, see Understanding Behaviour or PBS Principles & Values.
The PBS assessment mindset
PBS assessments look beyond labels or “incidents”. They explore the function — the reason the behaviour exists. This creates support plans that are compassionate, personalised and effective.
1. Gather clear, objective data
- Use ABC (Antecedent–Behaviour–Consequence) recording to capture patterns.
- Note time of day, environment, staffing, sensory factors, and demands.
- Collect examples of both successful moments and difficult ones.
2. Explore the behaviour’s function
Most behaviours fall into four categories:
- Escape or avoidance
- Access to something (activity, food, environment)
- Attention or connection (positive or negative)
- Sensory regulation
3. Understand the person’s communication profile
- Consider how the person expresses needs when calm.
- Identify communication breakdowns that lead to distress.
- Involve SALT where needed.
4. Map the environment
- Is the setting overwhelming or under-stimulating?
- Are expectations too high or unclear?
- Do staffing changes increase anxiety?
5. Turn insights into proactive support
- Create low-arousal plans tailored to the person.
- Adjust routines around natural stress points.
- Increase predictability and remove unnecessary demands.
6. Update PBS plans dynamically
- Assessments aren’t a one-off exercise.
- Plans should evolve weekly or monthly as new patterns emerge.
- Families and MDT partners contribute ongoing insight.
Understanding behaviour is the heart of PBS. It ensures Supported Living services respond to needs — not symptoms — and empowers people to live with confidence and dignity.
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