How We Might Best Develop and Deliver Training and Professional Development in Positive Behaviour Support: A Systematic Review

Abstract

What constitutes good clinical practice in positive behavioural support (PBS) is well established. But how these clinical principles and practices are best translated into education, training and professional development remain unclear. To inform the development of a national blueprint to support education and professional development in PBS, we sought to better understand current approaches to training and education in PBS, its content and delivery. A systematic review of PBS interventions involving staff training was conducted within the timeframe of 1999–2023. Seven databases and one specialist journal (not otherwise indexed) were searched. Articles were identified using key search words; that is, ‘positive behaviour support’, ‘disability’ and ‘training’. Thirty-three articles were identified whose predominant aims were to evaluate the impact and/or efficacy of PBS-based training. Training formats included workshops, lectures, modules, classroom/group instruction and team-based learning through the review of PBS plans. Core content focused on functional behaviour analysis, behaviour support planning, behaviour support strategies and interventions, as well as skills training. Articles reflected similar core content; however, there was a lack of consistency in training delivery, methodology and subsequent outcomes. Despite this, the literature provides evidence to inform the development of a future capabilities framework and guidance on the training, education and professional development of those involved in the delivery of PBS. Subsequently, recommendations are made to inform the education, training and professional development of PBS practitioners and those responsible for the coordination and delivery of support services for people who exhibit challenging behaviour.