A joyful and compassionate approach to addressing complex behaviour

At Autism Partnership, one of our key priorities is making learning joyful, engaging and safe.

We are also committed to constantly improving our services to better meet the needs of children by embracing innovative approaches and staying at the forefront of the field.

One particular approach we’ve been exploring over the last 12 months is PFA-SBT. This is a framework for addressing complex behaviours that is gaining momentum internationally. It’s a values-based approach that aligns very closely with our own, and that’s why we are thrilled to embed PFA-SBT into our practice.

What is PFA-SBT?

PFA-SBT stands for Practical Functional Assessment and Skills-Based Treatment.

It is an evidence-based and compassionate approach to understanding and addressing complex behaviours, such as aggression towards others and self-injury. Implemented around the world, PFA-SBT has been shown to be effective in even the most challenging of circumstances.

The approach focuses first on identifying when children are happy, relaxed, and engaged (HRE—yes, another acronym!) and subsequently teaching them positive skills to meet their needs.

Why is HRE important?

HRE is a crucial goal of the PFA-SBT approach. It follows the premise that a happy, relaxed, and engaged child is more able to learn, acquire and generalise new skills.

The approach focuses on creating an environment where a child is most comfortable and prepared to learn. It prioritises understanding and building a positive rapport with the child before placing expectations or working on things that might be challenging for them.

It’s all about meeting children where they are at.

What are the values that underpin PFA SBT?

Empathy and respect —By understanding the reasons behind a child’s behaviours, PFA-SBT fosters a respectful and empathetic approach, considerate of the child’s perspective.

Child safety and wellbeing is the number one priority – both physical and emotional.

A child’s right of choice — Assent underpins the approach so the child always has the option to opt in or out of sessions. The door is always open.

Collaboration — Active parental participation is encouraged, providing families with tools and strategies to support their child’s progress and ensure consistency across different settings.

Meaningful skill development — the approach focuses on teaching functional and meaningful skills that replace complex behaviours, leading to long-term positive development and greater independence.

How does the PFA-SBT process enhance our services?

PFA-SBT is a positive and powerful framework that we draw in our day-to-day practice that enhances our ability to:

  • Ensure that our teaching style is flexible, joyful and motivating – designed to get children excited about learning.
  • Focus on building meaningful relationships with our children and families based on respect, trust and empathy.
  • Enhance the overall well-being of the children we work with.
  • Ultimately achieve better outcomes for the children and families we serve.