Overview
Content Advisory: This activity includes discussion of real-world scenarios involving challenging behaviours, trauma, and related topics such as aggression, self-injury, and experiences of abuse or neglect. While all examples are presented in a professional and sensitive manner, some participants may find certain content distressing. Participants are encouraged to engage in self-care during the session. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you may step out or seek support from the facilitator. A list of support resources will be provided at the end of the session.
Understanding and responding to challenging behaviour requires more than behaviour management alone. Increasingly, psychologists are recognising the critical role of trauma, neurodevelopment, and context in shaping how behaviour presents across childhood and adolescence.
This activity provides a practical, evidence-informed introduction to managing behaviours of concern through a trauma-informed lens, with a developmental focus on children and adolescents (Prep–Year 12). Grounded in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), the session integrates current research on trauma, brain development, and behavioural science to support safe, ethical, and effective practice.
Participants will strengthen their ability to analyse behaviour within its broader context, including the role of trauma as a setting event, and apply functional assessment approaches such as ABC data and Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBAs). The session also builds skills in implementing trauma-informed, low-arousal strategies that support emotional regulation, de-escalation, and psychological safety.
With a strong emphasis on real-world application, participants will learn how to design person-centred, developmentally appropriate behaviour support strategies that move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. Drawing on case examples from educational and therapeutic contexts, the session supports psychologists to adapt interventions to the individual’s history, strengths, and needs.
CBT-informed strategies are incorporated where developmentally appropriate to enhance emotional literacy, cognitive flexibility, and coping skills, while remaining aligned with PBS principles. Participants will also strengthen their communication and engagement approaches to foster trust, collaboration, and positive outcomes for individuals and families.
Level of Learning
Foundational/Intermediate. This activity is targeted to those new to the topic and those who have some previous learning on the topic.
Target audience
This activity is suitable for: psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, behaviour practitioners, nurses, allied health practitioners, teachers, educators and disability workers.
Professional competencies for psychology
The Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) have updated the Professional competencies for psychology which came into effect on 1 December 2025. This activity addresses the following PsyBA Professional competencies for psychology: 1, 2, 3, and 6.
APS CPD-Approved
This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.