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4Strategies That SupportPositive Behaviour“Small things done consistently in strategic placesmake change happen.”Cile Chavez, AuthorResearch has shown that we can understandthe following about individuals’ behaviours.• Behaviour is learned and therefore can beunlearned.• Each individual is unique and thereforerequires an individualized approachbased on the purpose or function of theindividual’s behaviour.• The first step of an intervention is toidentify the purpose or function thecurrent behaviour serves.• Behaviour is influenced by the typeof reinforcement received or by otherconsequences that result after thebehaviour occurs.• Observational data is needed todetermine the function of the behaviourand the effects of antecedents andconsequences surrounding thatbehaviour.• The function of a behaviour needs to beunderstood in order to select appropriateintervention strategies.• Altering the setting or environment mayimprove an individual’s behaviour.• Data collection will help make informeddecisions about the foundation forworking with an individual’s behaviours.• People working with individuals whohave behaviour difficulties can buildtheir capacity to support the learningof these individuals by observing andunderstanding behaviours, using positivebehaviour supports, and matchingstrategies to the individual’s needs.A number of strategies can support positivebehaviour. These include:• mixing old activities with new activities• redirecting to a different activity• offering choices• providing visual information• taking active breaks• using relaxation techniques• recognizing stressful activities• providing more attention and assistance• providing positive feedback forpreferred behaviours• providing cues—visual and verbal• setting clear expectations.Redirecting to a different activityWhen a potential conflict situation is aboutto occur and the inappropriate behaviouris of low intensity, it can help to redirectthe individual’s attention to an activityother than the one creating the issue. Forexample, using a calm, businesslike voice,invite the individual to have a conversationwith you about something else. At alltimes, this type of intervention should becourteous and respectful. The goal is toredirect the individual to more positiveactivities, not to have an argument. Forexample, inviting an individual to go for awalk can help an individual burn off excessSupporting Positive Behaviour: A Career and Technology Studies CCS 3050 ResourceCopyright © 2012 Edmonton Public Schools. Permission to reproduce student materials granted for individual classroom use only.13