The Body Life Skills Program: An Evidence-Based Approach to Lasting Behaviour Change
In the ever-evolving field of behaviour support, the need for evidence-based approaches is paramount. The Body Life Skills (BLS) program, developed by Tanya Curtis, stands out as a pioneering framework that integrates proven methodologies to foster meaningful and lasting behaviour change. Rooted in the principles of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), the BLS program offers a comprehensive and holistic approach that addresses the complexities of human behaviour.
Understanding the Body Life Skills Program
The Body Life Skills program is designed to empower individuals by equipping them with the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges effectively. It is built on the understanding that behaviour is influenced by a multitude of factors, including physical, emotional and environmental elements. The program focusses on identifying the underlying reasons for behaviours, rather than merely addressing the symptoms.
Evidence-Based Foundations
- Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA): At the core of the BLS program is the Functional Behaviour Assessment, a well-established evidence-based tool. FBA helps practitioners understand the ‘why’ behind behaviours and enables them to develop targeted interventions that address root causes rather than surface-level symptoms.
- Cognitive Behavioural Techniques: The BLS program incorporates cognitive behavioural techniques, such as guided discovery and problem-solving, to support individuals in developing self-awareness and emotional regulation. These techniques are widely recognised for their effectiveness in promoting positive behaviour change.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The program emphasises the importance of data collection and analysis for crafting personalised behaviour support plans. By systematically monitoring progress and outcomes, practitioners can make informed adjustments to interventions, ensuring they remain effective and relevant.
- Integration with PBS Framework: The BLS program aligns seamlessly with the Positive Behaviour Support framework, which is grounded in applied behaviour analysis. This integration ensures that the program adheres to best practices and is supported by a robust body of research.
Holistic and Person-Centred Approach
The Body Life Skills program is not only evidence-based but also holistic and person-centred. It recognises the importance of considering the individual’s entire context, including their physical, emotional and social environment. By tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each person, the program fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over the behaviour change process.
Collaborative and Multidisciplinary
The BLS program thrives on collaboration. It brings together a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including psychologists, speech pathologists and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive support. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of the individual’s needs are addressed, drawing on the diverse expertise of each team member.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
At FABIC, the commitment to continuous improvement is unwavering. The Body Life Skills program is subject to ongoing evaluation and refinement, incorporating feedback from participants, support teams and stakeholders. This iterative process ensures that the program continually evolves in response to new research and emerging best practices.
Conclusion
The Body Life Skills program is a testament to the power of evidence-based approaches in behaviour support. By combining proven methodologies with a holistic, person-centred framework, the program offers a path to lasting behaviour change. As the field of behaviour support continues to advance, the BLS program sets a high standard for excellence, demonstrating the profound impact of integrating evidence-based practices into everyday life.
Tanya Curtis
FABIC Founder and Director, Head of Clinical Team, Behaviour Specialist, Presenter, Author, Course Facilitator, Products Developer
More information regarding FBAs and FABIC’s Behaviour Model can be found below:
