Learn More About Our Service
Understanding and Managing Behaviours of Concern
Top NDIS Service Provider in Australia
What Are Behaviours of Concern?
A behaviour of concern is any behaviour that may place a person or those around them at risk, or impact their wellbeing, relationships, independence, or participation in everyday life.
These behaviours are not simply about someone “being difficult” or “seeking attention.” In many cases, behaviours of concern are a way of communicating distress, frustration, anxiety, discomfort, unmet needs, or feeling overwhelmed — especially when expressing emotions or needs verbally is difficult.
Understanding behaviours of concern means looking beyond the behaviour itself to understand what the person may be experiencing and what supports they need to feel safe, heard, and supported.
At JARA Support Network, we work collaboratively with participants, families, carers, educators, and support teams to understand the underlying causes of behaviours of concern. Through compassionate and evidence-based Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), we develop personalised strategies that improve quality of life, build independence, and create meaningful long-term outcomes.
Examples of Behaviours of Concern
Behaviours of concern can vary in frequency, intensity, and impact. Examples may include:
Physical Aggression
Actions that may cause harm to others, including hitting, kicking, biting, pushing, or throwing objects.
Verbal Aggression
Using language in a way that may intimidate, threaten, or distress others, such as yelling, swearing, or making threats.
Self-Injurious Behaviour
Behaviours that result in harm to oneself, including head-banging, scratching, biting, or hitting oneself.
Property Damage
Damaging personal belongings or shared environments, such as smashing furniture, breaking objects, or damaging walls.
Withdrawal or Refusal
Avoiding interaction or refusing important activities such as eating, drinking, attending school, participating in routines, or engaging with others.
Inappropriate Sexual Behaviour
Sexualised behaviours that may be unsafe or socially inappropriate, including public undressing or unwanted touching.
Challenging Behaviour vs Behaviour of Concern
The language used to describe behaviour is important because it shapes how people respond and the supports that are provided.
Behaviour of Concern
“Behaviour of concern” is the preferred person-centred term used within Positive Behaviour Support and the NDIS sector. It recognises that behaviour is often linked to unmet needs, emotional distress, communication difficulties, trauma, environmental stressors, or challenges with emotional regulation.
This approach focuses on understanding and support rather than blame or punishment.
Challenging Behaviour
The term “challenging behaviour” is still commonly used and generally refers to behaviours that challenge support environments, carers, or services. While both terms are often used interchangeably, “behaviour of concern” is considered more respectful and aligned with person-centred practice.
Disruptive Behaviour vs Behaviour of Concern
Disruptive behaviour may interrupt routines or environments, such as calling out, refusing instructions, or making loud noises. However, disruptive behaviour becomes a behaviour of concern when it significantly impacts safety, wellbeing, learning, relationships, or participation in everyday life.
How We Support Behaviours of Concern
Effective support involves both immediate responses and long-term proactive strategies that address the underlying reasons behind the behaviour.
Immediate Support Strategies
When behaviours occur, the priority is always safety, emotional regulation, and preserving the dignity of the individual. Immediate support strategies may include:
- Calm and consistent responses
- Reducing environmental triggers
- Using de-escalation techniques
- Providing reassurance and emotional support
- Supporting regulation and coping strategies
- Creating safe and supportive environments
Our approach focuses on reducing distress while maintaining the individual’s well-being, dignity, and sense of safety.
Long-Term Positive Behaviour Support
Long-term Positive Behaviour Support focuses on creating sustainable change by understanding the purpose of behaviour and developing proactive supports around the individual.
Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
We identify patterns, triggers, unmet needs, communication barriers, and environmental factors that may contribute to behaviours of concern.
Positive Behaviour Support Plans (PBSP)
We develop personalised Positive Behaviour Support Plans that include proactive strategies, skill-building approaches, and consistent support recommendations across all settings.
Skill Development
We support participants to build communication, emotional regulation, coping, social, and independence skills that reduce the need for behaviours of concern.
Environmental Supports
Adjustments to routines, communication methods, sensory environments, expectations, and daily structures can significantly reduce stress and improve outcomes.
Training and Collaboration
We work closely with families, carers, schools, educators, therapists, and support workers to ensure strategies are implemented consistently and effectively.
Why Choose JARA Positive Behaviour Support?
At JARA Support Network, we believe every behaviour has meaning. Our role is to understand the person behind the behaviour and provide compassionate, evidence-based support that improves quality of life and promotes meaningful participation in everyday life.
We are committed to:
- Person-centred and trauma-informed practice
- Neurodiversity-affirming support
- Evidence-based Positive Behaviour Support
- Collaborative care with families and support teams
- Building independence, confidence, and wellbeing
- Respectful and culturally responsive support
Whether you need support understanding behaviours of concern or developing a personalised Positive Behaviour Support Plan, JARA Support Network is here to help.
Contact JARA Support Network today to learn how we can support you and your family.
Our Values
Why Choose Us
Person-Centred Support
Everything we do is guided by the unique goals, strengths, and needs of each participant, ensuring support that is meaningful and effective.
Experienced Professionals
Our Positive Behaviour Support practitioners bring extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, helping participants overcome challenges and achieve their desired outcomes.
Quality-Focused Services
We are committed to delivering high-quality support through continuous learning, professional development, and the use of best-practice approaches.
Care Shaped Around Your Everyday Life
Want tailored programs? Join Us Now!
At Jara Support Network, we understand that every NDIS participant has unique needs, goals, and preferences. That’s why we create personalised support programs designed just for you. With flexible services and compassionate professionals by your side, we make sure your NDIS journey is truly your own. Join us today and experience care that’s built around you.
