About this resource
Patterns are easier to see on a chart. Teams mark the two-hour blocks across the week when an agreed behaviour happens, or does not, using a simple key. Over a few weeks, patterns linked to times, routines, places or people can emerge and inform the behaviour support practitioner's assessment.
Purpose
To collect simple time-based data that helps identify patterns and inform proactive strategies.
Who it is for
Primary profession: Positive behaviour support practitioners. Also relevant for disability support workers, educators and school support staff.
Client or participant group: Teams supporting a person with a behaviour support plan or a referral for behaviour support.
Practice setting: Supported living, schools, day programs and family homes, guided by a behaviour support practitioner.
Suggested uses
- Functional behaviour assessment data collection
- Spotting links with routines and transitions
- Reviewing the effect of proactive strategies
- Team data-sharing
Instructions for practitioners
- Agree a clear, observable description of the behaviour first.
- Agree the key and train all staff in using it.
- Record every block, including when the behaviour did not happen.
- Note routines and events in the margin.
- Review patterns with the behaviour support practitioner.
Accessibility considerations
Use a clear key and colour only as an addition to symbols.
Scope and limitations
A data collection tool. It does not determine the function of behaviour and must not be used to plan restrictive practices.
Research basis
Understanding what happens before and after behaviour is the basis of functional assessment, which guides support. Positive behaviour support aims to improve quality of life and reduce behaviours of concern by understanding their function and changing environments and skills.
- Allen, D., James, W., Evans, J., Hawkins, S., & Jenkins, R. (2005). Positive Behavioural Support: Definition, Current Status and Future Directions. Tizard Learning Disability Review, 10(2), 4–11. https://doi.org/10.1108/13595474200500014
- Hanley, G. P., Iwata, B. A., & McCord, B. E. (2003). FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF PROBLEM BEHAVIOR: A REVIEW. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 36(2), 147–185. https://doi.org/10.1901/jaba.2003.36-147
- NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/rules-and-standards/ndis-practice-standards
What is included
A 3-page printable A4 PDF, including a practitioner notes page with the research basis (version 1.0).
Originality
Original Practitioner Plus content: wording, activity structure, layout and icons were created for this resource. No third-party worksheets, illustrations or text were reproduced.
