At the Centre for Positive Behaviour Support (CPBS), we know that understanding behaviour, and how best to support it, can feel overwhelming. That’s why we use a powerful, compassionate approach called Multi-Element Behaviour Support (MEBS). But what is MEBS, and how is it different from other behaviour support models?

Let’s break it down.

What Is MEBS?

MEBS stands for Multi-Element Behaviour Support. It’s a framework that combines several strategies in a comprehensive way to help children, adolescents and adults improve their quality of life. Unlike some behavioural approaches that focus only on stopping a behaviour or reducing behaviours of concern, MEBS looks to build skills and improve environments for the person. MEBS focuses on the person from a strengths-based perspective and works to meet needs and develop person-centred, person-driven plans, to meet needs, and achieve goals. Through this strengths-based, person-centred approach, MEBS increases meaningful skills and changes environments so that behaviours of concern are no longer needed to meet or communicate needs.

MEBS has a foundation in four key areas of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA):

• Using evidence-based strategies to understand and change behaviour
• Non-Linear Contingency Analysis recognising that behaviour is complex and influenced by many factors, which means behaviour is more than a linear understanding of what happens immediately before and after
• Full Inclusion Principles ensuring people are supported in natural, everyday environments
• Person-Centred Values putting the individual’s voice, dignity, and goals at the heart of support

How MEBS is more than traditional ABA?

ABA is a well-established approach that focuses on identifying triggers and consequences of behaviour. ABA often takes a structured approach in many clinical settings. MEBS builds on ABA, using many evidence-based ABA strategies. Then MEBS goes further for people in their environments to reduce distress and build trust:

Why MEBS Matters for Families

• MEBS is especially powerful because it:
• Works in real-life environments like home, work, school, and community
• Focuses on long-term wellbeing, not just short-term behaviour change
• Encourages collaboration between professionals, families, and the person receiving support
• Uses non-aversive, non-restrictive strategies to keep everyone safe and respected
• Adapts over time as people grow and their needs change

MEBS in Action

At CPBS, we use MEBS to design person-driven support plans. We look at what’s working, what’s not, and how we can build a better day-to-day experience - whether that means teaching new skills, adjusting routines, or changing environments.

We believe that behaviours of concern are often a form of communication, and MEBS helps us listen more deeply and respond more effectively.