Define the concept of challenging behaviour
Identify inappropriate behaviours presented by individuals with an intellectual disability
Describe behaviour in observable and measurable terms
List the goals of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
Explain how internal factors related to a person’s health and wellbeing can underlie challenging behaviour
Explain how external factors—such as environmental conditions and responses to behaviour—can contribute to challenging behaviour
Define the terms:
Positive reinforcement
Negative reinforcement
Antecedent
Setting events
Recognise examples of positive and negative reinforcement of inappropriate or challenging behaviour in everyday situations
Identify situations where challenging behaviour is maintained by setting events and antecedents
Demonstrate how the Antecedent–Behaviour–Consequence (ABC) model works
Use an ABC chart to record observations of inappropriate or challenging behaviour
Gather and record relevant information about an individual to support analysis of behaviour and the development of a support plan
Distinguish between inappropriate behaviour and challenging behaviour
Describe an individual’s challenging behaviour in clear, observable, and measurable terms
Outline typical strategies used by staff and carers to respond to inappropriate behaviour
Outline the values underpinning Positive Behaviour Support
Evaluate how well the goals and values of PBS align with a service provider’s policies on challenging behaviour
Discuss how challenging behaviour can be reinforced both positively and negatively
Explain why negative reinforcement and punishment are not used within the Positive Behaviour Support model
Describe the four types of strategies that make up Positive Behaviour Support:
Teaching new skills
Teaching alternative skills to replace challenging behaviour
Changing the environment
Using the ABC model to increase desirable behaviour and reduce or prevent challenging behaviour
Outline guidelines for selecting skills to teach
Discuss characteristics that contribute to creating positive and supportive environments
Assessment:
This course is assessed in the following ways:
Why Forus Training?
At Forus Training, we have many different supports available for your learning:
| Course Type | Online Learning |
| Course Qualification | Level 5 Certificate |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| Awarding Body Details | Challenging Behaviour |
| Course Start Date | 7th July 2026 |
| Course End Date | 18th August 2026 |
| Course Duration | 7 weeks |
| Course Time | The course is accessible online, with a mixture of virtual sessions and self directed learning. Tutor support is provided throughout the course. |
| Course Fee | 295 |
| Entry Requirements | This course is open to anyone interested in doing it provided you fulfil some or one of the following criteria: Have completed the Leaving Certificate, and/or You may also be eligible if you have relevant life and work experience, in this case you may need to speak to the tutor and discuss your previous work experience or furnish the tutor with a CV and work references. |
| Career Path | This course leads to an award on the National Framework of Qualifications. Students who successfully complete this programme may use their credits towards completing a higher level of study in the area of Intellectual Disability Practice. Students who successfully complete this Major Award can also use the Certificate as the basis for entry into selected courses in Third Level Colleges and Universities. |
| Course Code | 5N1706 |

Are you interested in learning about Training Delivery and Evaluation? Forus Training’s Level 6 Training Delivery and Evaluation course is starting on May 6th 2026 for €380 - payment options available! This 8 week course will give you the knowledge, skill and competence to deliver, assess and evaluate a training and development intervention.
Are you interested in Work Experience for healthcare? Forus Training’s Level 5 course is starting on June 25th 2026 for €295 - payment options available! This 7 week course is tailored towards the healthcare sector.
Start your career as a Special Needs Assistant with Forus Training’s Level 6 Special Needs Assisting course which is starting on 1st April 2026 (if this date doesn't suit, please see more dates below!) for €480.