The Constructional Approach and the Multi Element Behaviour Support Model by Professor Caroline Dench

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This presentation will explore how the Multi-Element Behaviour Support (MEBS) model incorporates Israel Goldiamond’s (1974) constructional approach, a pivotal concept in behavioural science. The Multi-Element Behaviour Support model (LaVigna & Willis, 2005) is a unique framework designed to support individuals with behavioural support needs and has been in place at Saint John of God Community Services CLG, Ireland, since 1992. The constructional approach focuses on building positive behaviours to enhance quality of life. It is dedicated to creating solutions by developing important person-centred repertoires for desired outcomes. Central to the constructional approach is the concept of choice, which respects and honours individuals’ human rights and personal freedoms. Supports are uniquely tailored to ensure they are preferred in all choice situations. The constructional approach aims to maximise choice, recognising that more choices generally imply greater degrees of freedom. This relationship is encapsulated in the four guiding questions of the constructional approach: Where do you want to go? (Desired outcomes) Where are you now? (Current relevant repertoires) How will you get from here to there? (Change procedures) What will keep you going? (Maintaining consequences) By using these guiding questions, the MEBS model ensures that support is tailored to the individual’s perspective, promoting compassionate and empathetic support while facilitating co-production, choice, and quality of life outcomes. Caroline Dench, Coordinator, Callan Institute, Saint John of God Community Services, Dublin, Ireland; Adjunct Associate Professor, University College Dublin, Ireland Caroline holds a BA (Hons) in Psychology (1988) and an MA in Clinical Psychology (1989) from University College Dublin (UCD). She has been with the Callan Institute, Saint John of God Community Services CLG, in Dublin since 1997, initially as a Senior Clinical Psychologist and currently as Principal Clinical Psychologist and Coordinator. Caroline has played a key role in developing the institute as a national training and consultation agency, achieving course accreditations, and serving as an Adjunct Associate Professor at UCD. She maintains an active caseload, providing assessment and intervention for individuals with behavioural support needs across SJOGCS ID services. Caroline designs and implements training systems for staff, presents at conferences, and has established Communities of Practice Fora. She also manages RUA, a service promoting relationships and sexuality for individuals with intellectual disabilities/autism, and has implemented School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support in several schools. With over 34 years of experience, Caroline has worked in the USA as a programme administrator and behaviour analyst, supporting children with emotional and behavioural disorders, autism, trauma, and intellectual disabilities. She lectures in academic and professional settings, is involved in research activities, and is a member of the IABA Research and Education Foundation. Caroline is a Chartered Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland.