The Importance of Addressing System Factors in Developing Support Plans for Challenging Behaviours

Challenging behaviours can significantly impact the lives of individuals, their families, and the communities they live in. When it comes to managing and mitigating these behaviours, developing comprehensive support plans is essential. However, focusing solely on the individual without considering the broader system factors can lead to incomplete and ineffective solutions. In their book "Managing Disruptive Behaviours with a Positive Systems Approach," Dr. Carey and Terry Kirkpatrick emphasize the crucial role that system factors play in addressing challenging behaviours effectively.

Understanding System Factors

System factors encompass the various environmental, social, and organizational influences that affect an individual's behaviour. These include family dynamics, school or workplace environments, community resources, and cultural norms. By acknowledging and addressing these factors, support plans can be more holistic and tailored to the individual's unique circumstances.

1.     Environmental Influences

The physical environment can significantly impact behaviour. Factors such as noise levels, lighting, space, and even the presence of specific objects can either exacerbate or alleviate challenging behaviours. For instance, a cluttered and chaotic environment may increase anxiety and aggression in some individuals, while a calm and orderly space may promote relaxation and positive interactions.

2.     Social Dynamics

Relationships and social interactions are pivotal in shaping behaviour. Support plans must consider the individual's relationships with caregivers, family members, peers, educators, and coworkers. Positive reinforcement from these relationships can encourage desirable behaviours, while negative or stressful interactions can trigger disruptive behaviours. Dr. Carey and Terry Kirkpatrick’s book highlights the importance of fostering supportive and understanding social networks that reinforce positive behaviours.

3.     Organizational Context

Schools, residential settings, workplaces, and other organizational settings often have policies and practices that influence behaviour. For instance, rigid disciplinary policies may not address the underlying causes of challenging behaviours and can instead lead to further issues. On the other hand, organizations that implement positive behavioural supports and inclusive practices can create environments that reduce the occurrence of disruptive behaviours. Positive Systems Approach advocates for organizational change that supports positive behaviour management strategies.

4.     Community Resources

Access to community resources such as mental health services, recreational activities, and support groups plays a significant role in managing challenging behaviours. Support plans should identify and leverage these resources to provide comprehensive care. Communities that offer a range of services and support networks enable individuals to engage in positive activities and receive the help they need.

Benefits of a Positive Systems Approach

1.     Holistic Understanding

Considering system factors provides a more holistic understanding of the individual's behaviour. It recognizes that behaviours are not isolated incidents but are forms of communication and are influenced by a multitude of interconnected factors. This broader perspective leads to more effective and sustainable solutions.

2.     Tailored Interventions

A Positive Systems Approach allows for the development of tailored interventions that address specific environmental and social factors unique to the individual. This customization increases the likelihood of successful outcomes and reduces the recurrence of challenging behaviours.

3.     Empowerment and Inclusion

By involving the individual, their family, and their community in the support planning process, a Positive Systems Approach fosters empowerment and inclusion. It ensures that all stakeholders have a voice and are active participants in creating a supportive environment.

4.     Sustainable Change

Addressing system factors creates the conditions for sustainable change. Rather than relying on temporary fixes or punitive measures, this approach seeks to modify the underlying conditions that contribute to challenging behaviours. As a result, individuals can experience long-term improvements in their behaviour and overall well-being.

A flow chart showing the interactions between individual behaviours and important system factors is presented below:

Explanation:

1. Individual's Behaviour: This is the central node of the flowchart, representing the behavior that needs to be understood and addressed.

2. Social Dynamics: These are crucial as they directly influence the individual's daily interactions and emotional well-being.

• Family Relations: The quality and nature of family interactions.

• Peer Interactions: The influence of friends and colleagues.

• Community Support: The availability and quality of community resources and support networks.

1. Organization: The structural and policy-related aspects that impact behaviour.

• Policies & Rules: Organizational guidelines and disciplinary measures.

• Leadership Style: The approach of those in authority and its impact on behaviour.

• Support Systems: Resources and programs within the organization designed to support individuals.

1. Culture: The overarching societal norms and values that shape behaviour.

• Norms & Values: The accepted ways of behaving within a culture.

• Beliefs & Attitudes: The collective mindset and attitudes prevalent in a culture.

• Traditions: Long-standing practices and customs that influence behaviour.

1. Physical Environment: The immediate physical context in which an individual operates.

• Noise Levels: Ambient noise and its impact on concentration and stress.

• Lighting: The quality and type of lighting and its effect on mood and behaviour.

• Space & Layout: How physical spaces are organized and their suitability for different activities.

• Sensory Stimuli: The presence of sensory inputs like smells, textures, and temperatures.

Each of these factors is interconnected, illustrating that an individual's behaviour is not influenced by a single element but by a combination of environmental, social, organizational, and cultural factors. This holistic perspective aligns with positive systems approach, emphasizing the need to consider these diverse influences when developing effective support plans.

Conclusion

Dr. Carey and Terry Kirkpatrick's book, "Managing Disruptive Behaviours with a Positive Systems Approach," underscores the importance of considering system factors in developing support plans for individuals with challenging behaviours. By taking into account the environmental, social, organizational, and community influences, support plans can be more effective, inclusive, and sustainable. This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate behavioural concerns but also promotes a supportive and understanding environment that fosters positive change.

In summary, when we consider the broader systems in which individuals operate, we move closer to creating compassionate and effective support plans that make a lasting difference in their lives.