Turning Interfering Behaviors Around: The Power of a Positive Behavior Intervention Plan

Heyyy, BCBA Ruby here!

When we’re faced with behaviors that get in the way of learning or socializing, it can be frustrating. But here’s the thing: every behavior has a purpose, and with the right approach, we can turn challenging behaviors into opportunities for growth. Instead of just focusing on stopping the behavior, let’s shift our attention to teaching better ways to meet those same needs. That’s where a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) comes into play.

A BIP isn’t about punishment—it’s about creating strategies to teach new skills and support meaningful behavior change in a positive, proactive way. And guess what? It works when we focus on solutions that empower, rather than just focusing on the problem.

What’s a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?

A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is essentially a roadmap for changing a behavior by understanding its root cause and replacing it with more adaptive alternatives. This process starts with understanding why a behavior is happening through Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and then using that information to build a plan that works.

A good BIP should:

1. Identify the Behavior – What exactly is the behavior? How does it show up in different settings?

2. Identify the Function – What need is the behavior serving? Is it to gain attention, avoid a task, or access something?

3. Teach New Skills – What’s a better way to get the same need met? Let’s teach them how to ask for a break or raise their hand, instead of throwing a tantrum.

4. Provide Support – What accommodations or modifications in the environment will help the individual succeed?

Key Elements of a Positive BIP

1. Clear, Positive Goals
   Instead of focusing solely on reducing problem behaviors, a strong BIP outlines clear, measurable goals for positive behavior change. For example, rather than saying "stop the tantrums," a better goal might be "Use words to ask for a break."

2. Proactive Strategies
   A positive BIP isn’t just about reacting to behaviors, but preventing them from happening in the first place. This could include setting up the environment to minimize triggers or using visual schedules to reduce anxiety about transitions.

3. Teaching Replacement Skills
   A BIP isn’t just about stopping problem behaviors; it’s about teaching new skills to replace them. If a child is acting out to avoid a task, we can teach them how to ask for a break or how to ask for help.

4. Reinforcing Positive Behavior
   Positive reinforcement is a key part of any BIP. We want to reward the appropriate behaviors so they’re more likely to happen again. The more we reinforce the new, positive behavior, the more it will stick.

The Power of Collaboration

Creating an effective BIP requires teamwork. The BCBA, parents, teachers, and anyone else involved in the individual’s life need to work together to create a plan that is personalized to meet their unique needs. With everyone on the same page, the individual will have the support they need to be successful.

Final Thoughts

A BIP isn’t just a piece of paper—it's a tool that helps us empower individuals to build new skills, express their needs more appropriately, and engage in more meaningful ways. When we approach behavior with a positive, proactive mindset, we create the space for growth and success.

Let’s focus on solutions that support the person, not just correct the behavior.

With care and hope,
Ruby Ladrido, BCBA 🐦💗