Positive Behavior Support


Purpose 

Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is an evidence-based practice for addressing behavior by enhancing quality of life and supporting mental health. The Boggs Center provides training and technical assistance to facilitate the development of Person-Centered approaches to effectively support individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, who display challenging behavior. The Boggs Center supports capacity building efforts of community provider agencies funded by the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and NJ Children's System of Care (CSOC).

Training

We offer a number of workshops related to Positive Behavior Support, including introductory and advanced courses on Positive Behavior Supports and planning. We also provide training opportunities to develop and practice specific skill areas, to support clinicians and direct support professionals to implement PBS strategies, such as assessment, documentation, data collection, and plan development. In order to ensure the development of effective interventions for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and provide meaningful support, Positive Behavior Supports training is recommended for all team members involved in the process of providing behavior support. While professional development training in Positive Behavior Supports is recommended for all team members working with individuals to support positive behavior and mental health, certain coursework may be required by DDD.

For current training opportunities, please visit The Boggs Center Online Registration System.

Technical Assistance

Along with training, Community Positive Behavior Support team members work to build capacity by providing technical assistance to Division approved agencies and their teams implement training practices. Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities may experience behavior challenges which can impact quality of life. To improve outcome for individuals, it is important to understand how behavior and mental health intersect in order to develop effective support plans and strategies. These opportunities may include some of the following:

  • Conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment, data collection tools, interpreting data
  • Support plan development and modification
  • Development of Behavior and Mental Health training materials
  • Making environmental modifications
  • Teaching replacement skills to support long term goals
  • Assessment of program needs
  • Team building activities
  • Workforce development to support
  • Direct Workforce Competency
  • Other program development efforts
  • Review of team-based activities to practice and apply training concepts

If your team is interested in discussing Technical Assistance opportunities with The Boggs Center, please contact us at pbsinquiries@rutgers.edu.