Analysing text in positive behavioural support (PBS) policy: A pilot study

Background: Little research has been conducted regarding policies for positive behavioural support (PBS) despite its wide acceptance as a valid approach to practice and service provision in disability services.
Method and materials: Using the model of policy as text and policy as discourse, and the methods of literary analysis and the concept of condensation symbols, a state government PBS policy document is analysed from the perspective of the policy reader.
Results: The policy has limited scope for reader engagement, has an unclear focus, and makes inferences about PBS. Further, PBS is found to be used as a buzzword in the policy.
Discussion: Without acknowledging the rhetorical use of PBS in policy, and appreciating how readers may reinterpret and translate policy texts, there is limited scope for modifying policies for the successful implementation of PBS. This study highlights how an applied and critical evaluation of policy can be beneficial in not only highlighting factual errors, but also for revealing rhetoric and alternative textual meaning. Application of the methods to other jurisdictional policies is encouraged.