Understanding Replacement Behaviours in Positive Behaviour Support 

What Are Replacement Behaviours? 

In Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), replacement behaviours are alternative actions that serve the same function as behaviours of concern but in a more positive, appropriate, and constructive way. Instead of merely suppressing undesirable behaviours, PBS focuses on teaching individuals’ new skills that meet their needs in a socially acceptable manner. 

For example, if a child engages in disruptive behaviour to gain attention, a suitable replacement behaviour might be teaching them to raise their hand or use a communication tool instead. 

Why Are Replacement Behaviours Important? 

Replacement behaviours are essential in PBS because they: 

• Address the root cause of behaviours of concern 

• Help individuals meet their needs more effectively 

• Reduce the likelihood of the behaviours of concern reoccurring 

• Improve social interactions and independence 

By focusing on proactive strategies, replacement behaviours ensure long-term success rather than short-term fixes. 

Steps to Implement Replacement Behaviours 

1. Identify the Function of the Behaviour

Understanding why a behaviour occurs is the first step in replacing it. Common functions include: 

• Seeking meaningful engagement 

• Avoiding a task or situation 

• Accessing a preferred item or activity 

• Meeting sensory needs 

A Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) can help determine the function of behaviour, guiding the selection of an appropriate replacement behaviour. 

2. Choose an Appropriate Replacement Behaviour

A replacement behaviour should: 

• Serve the same function as the behaviours of concern 

• Be easier or more effective for the individual to use 

• Be socially acceptable and practical 

For example, if a child screams to escape an overwhelming situation, teaching them to use a “break card” or verbal request can be a more appropriate alternative. 

3. Teach and Reinforce the Replacement Behaviour

Consistently teaching and reinforcing new behaviour is crucial. This can be achieved through: 

• Modeling: Demonstrating the desired behaviour 

• Prompting: Providing cues or reminders 

• Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding the individual when they use the replacement behaviour 

4. Modify the Environment to Support Change

Creating an environment that encourages the replacement behaviour can make it easier for individuals to adopt it. Strategies include: 

• Adjusting schedules and routines to reduce stress 

• Providing clear visual supports and communication tools 

• Ensuring consistency across different settings (home, school, community) 

Examples of Replacement Behaviours in Action 

Attention-Seeking Behaviours 

• Behaviours of concern: Interrupting or shouting to gain attention 

• Replacement Behaviour: Using a visual cue or raising a hand 

Escape or Avoidance Behaviours 

• Behaviours of concern: Running away or refusing to engage in a task 

• Replacement Behaviour: Using a “help” card or requesting a break 

Sensory-Seeking Behaviours 

• Behaviours of concern: Spinning or hand-flapping excessively 

• Replacement Behaviour: Using a fidget tool or engaging in structured sensory activities 

The Role of Caregivers and Support Professionals 

Caregivers, teachers, and support professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals adopt and maintain replacement behaviours. By working collaboratively, they can: 

• Provide consistent reinforcement 

• Monitor progress and make necessary adjustments 

• Encourage generalization across different settings 

At Achieve and Thrive, we specialize in creating individualized behaviour support plans that focus on effective replacement behaviours tailored to each person’s needs. 

Further Reading and Resources 

For more information on Positive Behaviour Support and replacement behaviours, check out these resources: 

• NDIS Positive Behaviour Support Guidelines 

• Association for Positive Behaviour Support 

• Autism Spectrum Australia – Behaviour Support Strategies 

Get Support Today 

If you or someone you support could benefit from a tailored behaviour support plan, our team at Achieve and Thrive is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist in implementing effective replacement behaviours for long-term success.