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What Are Positive Replacement Behaviors?

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What Are Positive Replacement Behaviors?

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Behaviors that serve the same function as the challenging behavior but are socially acceptable and adaptive.

Examples:

Instead of hitting when frustrated try teaching a child to ask for a break or use deep breathing.

Instead of screaming for attention try teaching raising a hand or saying, “Can I talk, please?”

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Functional Equivalence – The replacement behavior must meet the same need as the problem behavior.

Teachability – The behavior must be something the individual can learn and perform.

Reinforcement – The replacement behavior must be rewarded consistently.

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Conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

Identify the function of the challenging behavior (e.g., escape, attention, access to tangibles, sensory stimulation).

Use ABC (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence) data tracking.

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Select an Appropriate Replacement Behavior

Function of Behavior

Possible Replacement Behaviors

Escape/Avoidance

Request a break, use a “help” card, self-advocacy phrases (“I need a minute”)

Attention-Seeking Raise hand, tap shoulder, use polite words (“Can I talk?”)

Access to Tangibles

Teach waiting strategies (visual timer), use a “first-then” board, ask appropriately

Sensory Stimulation

Provide sensory alternatives (fidget tool, chewing necklace, movement breaks)

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Teach the Replacement Behavior

Modeling & Role-Playing: Demonstrate the behavior and practice in controlled settings.

Visual Supports: Use social stories, cue cards, or video modeling.

Prompting & Fading: Gradually reduce prompts as independence increases.

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Reinforce the Replacement Behavior

Immediate Reinforcement: Praise, tokens, or preferred rewards when the replacement behavior is used.

Natural Consequences: Ensure the new behavior satisfies the same need (e.g., giving attention when asked appropriately).

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Replacing Aggression with Communication

Target Behavior: Hitting when frustrated
Replacement Behavior: Using a “break card” or saying, “I need help.”
Instructional Steps:

1. Teach the student to recognize frustration signs (e.g., clenched fists).

2. Introduce and model the break card.

3. Practice in role-play scenarios.

4. Reinforce with praise and preferred activities when used correctly.

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Replacing Outbursts with Quiet Requests

Target Behavior: Yelling when wanting a toy
Replacement Behavior: Asking, “Can I have a turn?”

Instructional Steps:

1. Use a scripted phrase and practice during play.

2. Provide visual cues (e.g., a “talk quietly” reminder card).

3. Reinforce with immediate access to the toy when asked appropriately.

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Frequency Count: Track how often the replacement behavior is used.

Latency Recording: Measure the time between antecedent and behavior.

Checklists: Use a rubric to assess independence in using the skill.

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Books & Articles:

The Behavior Code by Jessica Minahan https://jessicaminahan.com/the-behavior-code-companion/

Siegel, D. J., & Bryson, T. P. (2016). No-drama discipline: the whole-brain way to calm the chaos and nurture your child's developing mind. Trade Paperback Edition. Bantam Books.

Wheeler & Richey (2019). Behavior Management: Principles and Practices of Positive Behavior Supports, Fourth Edition. Pearson Education [ISBN: 9780134792187]

Websites:

PBIS.org (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports)

Autism Speaks – Replacement Behavior Toolkit

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The Behavior Code Companion - Jessica Minahan, M.Ed, BCBA

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Since its publication in 2012, The Behavior Code: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Teaching the Most Challenging Students has helped countless classroom teachers, special educators, and others implement an effective, new approach to teaching focused on skill-building, practical interventions, and purposeful, positive interactions with students who have mental health disorders.

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Individualization is Key: Replacement behaviors must be tailored to the learner’s abilities.

Consistency Matters: All team members (teachers, parents, therapists) should reinforce the same behaviors.

Patience & Persistence: Behavior change takes time—celebrate small successes!