What is PWS?
What chromosome is affected in someone with PWS?
Chromosome 15
What does Positive Behaviour Support aim to improve for our participants?
Quality of Life
What is the most common behaviour seen in people with PWS?
Food-Seeking behaviour
Why should staff avoid making promises or "maybe" statements around food or preferred activities?
Can lead to confusion, false hope, and escalation if expectations aren’t met.
What type of restrictive practice is most commonly seen when supporting people with PWS?
Environmental Restraint
What hormone is often low in people with PWS, contributing to short stature and reduced muscle mass?
Growth Hormone
What does Positive Behaviour Support aim to reduce for our participants?
Behaviours of Concern
True or False: People with PWS often escalate behaviours quickly if they feel anxious or out of control
True
Why is it important to follow routines consistently with someone who has PWS?
It helps them feel safe, secure and reduces anxiety
What type of restrictive practice involves limiting someone's freedom to move?
Physical Restraint
What is the term for the constant feeling of hunger experienced by people with PWS?
Hyperphagia
Name one principle of Positive Behaviour Support
Person-Centred, Purposeful, Process Driven, Partnership, Planned, Positive
Name two common triggers for escalation in someone with PWS
Change in routine, Unfamiliar Staff, Food, Medical Interventions, Over-Promising, Notions of Unfairness, Anxiety, Insecurity, Money, Jealousy, Negative Interactions
What kind of communication is most effective when supporting someone with PWS?
Clear, Consistent, Calm Communication
True or False: Locking the fridge for someone with PWS can be considered a restrictive practice.
True
Name two psychological or emotional traits commonly seen in people with PWS.
Decreased self-control, Heightened anxiety, Rigid thinking, Egocentrism, Spontaneous change in mood, Decreased impulse control, Insistence on sameness
What does it mean for a Positive Behaviour Support plan to be person-centred?
Supports tailored to the individual’s unique needs, preferences, strengths, and goals
True or False: Body picking in PWS is always caused by anxiety.
False - It can also be related to boredom, sensory needs, or habit
What is the Food Security model phrase that supports a sense of safety around food?
No Hope + No Doubt = No Disappointment
What must be demonstrated before a restrictive practice is approved?
All least restrictive options have been tried and were not effective or safe.
What is a common strength often seen in people with PWS that staff can build on?
Strong visual learning skills, Routine-driven, Enjoyment of structure, Task-focused when interested, Motivated by praise, encouragement and recognition
True or False: PBS focuses only on reactive strategies after a behaviour occurs
False
How can egocentric thinking in PWS lead to conflict with others?
Person with PWS may assume others think the same way they do, leading to misunderstandings or frustration when they don’t get their way. Difficulty understanding the perspective of others.
When a participant begins to escalate, what is one strategy staff can use to avoid reinforcing the behaviour?
Offering space, reducing demands, or using minimal attention while remaining calm and supportive
What is one example of a proactive strategy that can reduce the need for restrictive practices in food security?
Consistent food routines, involving the person in meal planning to allow for choice and control