The teenage years and early adulthood are times of significant change. For young people living with disability, this period can bring additional challenges in communication, emotional regulation, social expectations and increased independence. Families often find themselves navigating new environments such as high school, employment pathways, community participation and early adulthood responsibilities.
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plays an important role during these transitions. It gives teenagers and young adults the skills, strategies and support they need to manage change, build confidence and move toward greater independence.
This guide explains how PBS supports young people aged 9 and above, how it fits within the NDIS, and why a structured, person-centred approach can make this stage of life more successful.
Why Behaviour Support Matters During Adolescence
Teenagers and young adults experience rapid development physically, socially and emotionally. For many NDIS participants, these changes can intensify behaviours with risks of harm (“behaviours of concern”), including:
- Heightened anxiety
- Withdrawal or shutdowns
- Meltdowns or outbursts during transition points
- Difficulties with communication
- Challenges following routines
- Increased frustration as expectations rise
These behaviours often have underlying causes. Stress from school, sensory overwhelm, identity development, social pressure or a desire for independence can all contribute.
Positive Behaviour Support focuses on understanding these factors and helping young people build the skills they need to navigate them successfully.
How PBS Supports Teenagers and Young Adults
PBS is not about controlling behaviour. It is about empowering young people with tools to express themselves, manage stress and participate more fully in their world.
Below are some of the key ways PBS supports youth during important transitions.
Supporting Emotional Regulation
As demands increase, young people may struggle to manage emotions such as frustration, worry or anger. PBS practitioners teach skills including:
- Coping strategies
- Self-awareness techniques
- Sensory regulation
- Alternative communication methods
- Calming routines
These strategies help teenagers maintain control and feel more confident when challenges arise.
Building Independence in Daily Routines
Teenagers and young adults are expected to take on more responsibility as they grow. This may include:
- Getting ready independently
- Managing school routines
- Completing homework or tasks
- Travelling in the community
- Preparing meals
- Participating in social activities
PBS practitioners work with families to develop structured routines, step-by-step supports and independence-building strategies that match the young person’s abilities and goals.
Navigating School Transitions
Moving from primary school to high school, changing classes or adjusting to new teachers can be stressful. PBS helps by:
- Preparing students for new expectations
- Teaching organisational skills
- Supporting communication between the school and family
- Helping create predictable routines
- Providing strategies for managing overwhelm in busy environments
These supports help young people feel more in control and less anxious during school transitions.
Preparing for Adulthood
For young adults, PBS may focus on skills such as:
- Workplace readiness
- Social communication
- Time management
- Emotional resilience
- Community participation
- Decision making and problem solving
Building these skills early supports a smoother transition into adulthood and increases opportunities for independence and success.
Strengthening Relationships
Teenagers often experience conflict at home or difficulty forming friendships. PBS can help by:
- Teaching communication skills
- Supporting safe social behaviour
- Helping families understand triggers and needs
- Reducing misunderstandings and emotional overload
Improved relationships lead to a more stable and supportive environment.
How PBS Fits into the NDIS for Teenagers and Young Adults
The NDIS funds Behaviour Support when “behaviours of concern” impact daily life, safety or participation. For teenagers and young adults, this often includes situations such as:
- Difficulty engaging in school
- Challenges with community access
- Safety concerns during transitions
- Emotional dysregulation affecting relationships
- Increased behaviours linked to developmental changes
Behaviour Support is typically funded under Improved Relationships in the Capacity Building budget.
Families can request Behaviour Support during planning meetings if they believe it will help with:
- Transition points
- Increased behavioural challenges
- Growing independence goals
- Emotional or social difficulties
- Support worker training needs
A practitioner can also assist with documenting behaviours and goals to support funding requests.
What Liberty Behavioural Services Offers for Young People
Liberty’s team specialises in working with participants aged 9 and above. Our person-centred approach recognises that teenagers and young adults require unique support. We focus on:
- Understanding their strengths, interests and identity
- Addressing the root causes of behaviours
- Teaching practical skills for independence
- Supporting families and teachers with clear strategies
- Creating structure during times of change
- Empowering young people to express needs safely and confidently
We work collaboratively with schools, families and support teams to ensure consistency across all environments.
Final Thoughts
The transition from childhood to adulthood can be complex, especially for young people who experience behaviours with risks of harm. Positive Behaviour Support offers a framework that helps them feel understood, supported and capable.
By building emotional regulation, independence skills and confidence, PBS creates a foundation for long-term success.
If your teenager or young adult is experiencing challenges during this stage of life, Behaviour Support can make a meaningful difference.
Get Support Today
Liberty Behavioural Services is here to guide families and young people through every transition.
To learn more or make a referral, visit our website or speak with our team.
