Recently, there has been some controversy about whether Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a distinct discipline from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or if PBS is just an extension of current ABA approaches.
The Background of ABA
ABA is based on research-based learning and behaviour concepts to enhance socially meaningful behaviours. Individuals, their families, and friends can benefit from socially appropriate behaviours that increase the quality of life, health, and social integration.
There has been considerable criticism of ABA because some people believed its uses and tactics were too limiting and dogmatic at times. It didn’t allow for skills acquisition beyond the clinic. However, ABA has come a long way since then, and it now has a well-deserved reputation for being a client- and child-centred.
The Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts (BACB, 2020) assures that the positive behaviour support practitioner upholds ethical values for the persons and families involved in the ABA program.
History About Positive Behavior Support
PBS emerged as a reaction to the issues mentioned above about ABA procedures in the mid-1980s to early 1990s. A positive behaviour support practitioner current approach focuses on achieving the most long-term results for people using naturalistic environments.
PBS focuses on proactive tactics adopted by a positive behaviour support practitioner to prevent problematic behaviours, reduce restrictive practices, and enhance individual and family inclusion.
What is the Gap Between ABA and PBS, and How do They Differ?
A scientific method is where ABA differs most significantly from PBS. Structural analyses are used in ABA to truly comprehend the aim of a client’s or child’s behaviours, using an experimental test to evaluate cause and effect. ABA strives to adjust a person’s surroundings to either reward behaviour or produce a consequence to facilitate learning, whereas PBS seeks to avoid manipulating a person’s setting.
What Lessons Should ABA Acquire From PBS?
ABA could acquire knowledge from what PBS has accomplished in such a short period, despite slight variations between the two methodologies. PBS has experienced quick expansion and adoption from consumers, businesses, and educational institutions. The following are some of the main components that have contributed to the PBS and positive behaviour support practitioner success:
• Person-centered techniques
• Concentration on encouraging consumers to make decisions
• Involvement of family members and friends
• Focus on a client’s standard of living and right to choose.
Behavior analysts should embrace positive behaviour support practitioner work since it incorporates the key concepts of ABA and is becoming more extensively acknowledged and utilized by service providers. Both approaches are linked by the underlying science and a willingness to help and do what is best for our customers.
At Lizard, we use ABA and PBS techniques to serve children with autism spectrum disorders and their families, understanding the background of both techniques and the qualities they both bring to the table. If you’d like to learn more about the Lizard difference, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our knowledgeable team members now.
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