An exploratory study of behavioural specialists' experiences of involving service users in the development of their positive behavioural support plans

Abstract
There is limited research that explores the experiences of how behavioural specialists actively involve people with a learning disability and challenging behaviour in the development of their positive behavioural support (PBS) plan. Accordingly, this exploratory research study aimed to explore this little understood area of practice.

Methods:
The study included semi-structured interviews comprised of nine Behavioural Specialists in three focus groups across two health boards. A descriptive thematic analysis study.

Findings:
Three major themes and 11 minor themes were identified illustrating how people with learning disabilities and behaviours that challenge were involved in developing their PBS plan. Significantly, the themes illustrated the complexity of truly involving service users in the process.

Conclusion:
Inclusion of people with a learning disability and behaviours that challenge in their PBS plan poses significant challenges. Person-centred care struggles to be truly embedded in the PBS model.