Examining what care ethics has to offer PBS

PBS has continued to develop a mounting evidence base, at the heart of which sits the behavioural science which underpins assessment, planning and evaluation. The implementation of PBS, however, requires an expanded knowledge base and skillset, one which can support mediators not only to carry out behavioural support plans, but to negotiate complexity in practice settings with empathy and relational skills. The authors argue that at present the analytical tools available to practitioners do not prioritise the care and relationships which care ethics prioritises in establishing practice as caring and ethical. This article provides an overview of care ethics, argues that it is a natural fit with PBS, and offers scope for further enhancing the caring integrity of those relationships that are vital to positive, dynamic and effective behaviour support.