Frontiers Enablement Model

The Frontiers Enablement Model is a complete approach to teaching that develops all aspects of a student's character, rather than just focussing on the academic.

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4. Family - Part Two

4. Family - Part two

TWO: Using Positive Strategies

family The second key aspect to the family element is to use positive (or non-aversive) strategies.

Rather than using punishment to modify behaviour (e.g. shouting, threatening or removing privileges), a positive strategy means understanding why a young person is behaving in challenging ways, and teaching them more appropriate ways to meet their needs.

We believe that punishment usually doesn't deal with the issues causing the behaviour, it doesn't teach the students an alternative approach, and it can be damaging to relationships with young people.

You can dowload an information sheet about Positive Strategies here.

Principles behind Positive Strategies

All actions have a positive intent. They are usually coping strategies of some kind, e.g. if a student makes disruptive noises in a class, it's because they want to gain attention or avoid risk of failure.
The ultimate goal is to support young people with challenging behaviour to control their own actions and reactions.
Self-control isn't taught through giving rewards for good behaviour, e.g. stickers & stars, or punishment for bad behaviour, e.g. removing privileges. These are tempting because they can rapidly change behaviours, however they also give control to the adult. Strategies such as redirection to alternative activities & prevention strategies are often more effective.
Challenging behaviour can be reduced when young people have opportunities to make choices, be leaders, take responsibility, be treated with respect and have their feelings supported and frustrations attended to.

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