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Staff perceptions of positive behavioural support in a secure forensic adult mental health setting

Graeme Karger (Community Child Psychology, Children’s Centre, St David’s Hospital, Cardiff, UK)
Bronwen Davies (Assessment and Treatment Unit, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Llanfrechfa, Cwmbran, UK)
Rosemary Jenkins (South Wales School of Clinical Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK)
Victoria Samuel (South Wales School of Clinical Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK)

The Journal of Forensic Practice

ISSN: 2050-8794

Article publication date: 18 January 2018

Issue publication date: 23 January 2018

788

Abstract

Purpose

Challenging behaviour has been a concern across forensic services. Traditionally these have been managed reactively using medication, seclusion and restraint; however, there is growing evidence that these approaches are ineffective and counter-therapeutic. A number of reports have recommended the use of preventative approaches such as positive behavioural support (PBS). The purpose of this paper is to identify “how staff within a secure forensic mental health setting perceived the application of PBS?”

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 11 multi-disciplinary staff were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to identify themes.

Findings

Five themes were identified: “The Functions”, “Appraising a new Approach”, “Collaborative Challenges”, “Staff Variables” and “Organisational Issues”.

Practical implications

PBS enables staff to understand challenging or risky behaviour. It empowers patients via collaboration, although there can be some challenges to this. Services need to invest in training, support and leadership to ensure the model is embed and promote fidelity. Consideration needs to be given to how quality of life can be improved within the limits of a forensic setting.

Originality/value

No previous studies asking staff about their experiences of PBS within a forensic mental health context.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank all the staff who participated in this research, sometimes at a short notice. The authors would also like to thank the service for hosting the research and enabling this project to proceed.

Citation

Karger, G., Davies, B., Jenkins, R. and Samuel, V. (2018), "Staff perceptions of positive behavioural support in a secure forensic adult mental health setting", The Journal of Forensic Practice, Vol. 20 No. 1, pp. 42-53. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFP-10-2017-0044

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited

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