What is the main focus of positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS)?

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) primarily aims to promote positive behavior and reduce challenging behaviors in educational settings. This approach is proactive and preventive, emphasizing the teaching of appropriate behaviors in the same way that academic skills are taught. By establishing clear expectations for behavior and consistently reinforcing positive actions, PBIS creates an environment where students can thrive. It not only addresses the behaviors that may disrupt learning but also fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages academic and social success.

Through this framework, schools focus on recognizing and rewarding positive behaviors, which can lead to improved student outcomes, enhanced school climate, and a reduction in disciplinary incidents. This comprehensive approach helps to ensure that all students, regardless of their challenges, have the opportunity to engage fully in their education.

Other choices represent approaches contrary to the fundamental principles of PBIS. For instance, increasing behavior problems or punishing negative actions does not align with the proactive, inclusive intentions of PBIS, which seeks to encourage constructive behavior instead of focusing on punishment or management of distractions that may detract from the learning environment.