Contrasts And Likeness Between PBS And ABA

For the past few years, there have been arguments questioning if Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a separate field from Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) or a continuation of current ABA strategies.

The Origin of ABA 

ABA is founded on research-based learning and behaviour principles to improve socially unusual behaviours. Socially appropriate actions that improve quality of life, health, and social inclusion can greatly help individuals, families, and colleagues. 

Some people have criticized ABA because they believe its applications and strategies are sometimes restricting and dogmatic. It didn't allow for skill development outside of the clinic. ABA has progressed remarkably since then, and it currently has a well-deserved image for being client- and child-centred.

The Behaviour Analysts' Code of Ethics (BACB, 2020) ensures that the positive behaviour support practitioner preserves ethical standards for the ABA program's people and families.

Positive Behavior Support Background

In the mid-1980s and early 1990s, PBS arose in response to earlier concerns regarding ABA methods. The current strategy of a positive behaviour support expert relies on attaining the best long-term results for people in realistic settings.

Positive behaviour support (PBS) focuses on proactive strategies used by a positive behaviour support practitioner to avoid inappropriate behaviour, eliminate restrictive practices, and improve individual and family participation. 

What is the Difference Between ABA and PBS, and How Do They Compare?

Where ABA distinguishes the most from PBS is in a scientific approach. Structural analyses are used in ABA to fully appreciate the purpose of a client's or child's behaviour by evaluating cause and effect utilizing an experimental test. ABA aims to change a person's environment to either reward or punish conduct for aiding development, whereas PBS aims to avoid changing a person's environment.

What are the lessons that ABA should learn from PBS?

Despite minor differences between the two techniques, ABA could learn from what PBS has attained in such a short time. PBS has grown rapidly among consumers, corporations, and educational institutions. Some of the primary factors that have led to the effectiveness of PBS and positive behaviour support physicians are as follows:

• Person-centered tactics
• Emphasis on motivating customers to make choices
• Involvement of family and friends
• Emphasis on a customer's level of life and right to choose

Professional counselors should embrace positive behaviour support practitioner work since it integrates core ABA notions and has become widely recognized and used by service providers. The fundamental science and an effort to serve what is right for our consumers bind both methods together.

At Lizard, we combine ABA and PBS strategies to help children with autism spectrum disorders. We know the history of both systems and the benefits they each provide. Feel free to contact one of our trained teammates if you want to understand more about the Lizard difference.

 

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