Ross Greene’s Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS)
Ross Greene’s Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model is a helpful way to support PDAers. Greene says: “Kids do well if they can.” This means that challenging behaviour happens when a child lacks the skills to meet expectations, not because they want to be difficult (The Explosive Child, 2014).
The CPS model focuses on working with the child, rather than imposing solutions. Greene’s Plan B method has three steps:
- Empathy: listen to the child’s concerns. For example, say, “I noticed getting ready for school is really hard. What’s up?”
- Define the Problem: explain your concern calmly. For example, “I worry because we need to leave on time.”
- Invitation: work together on a solution. For example: “How can we make this easier for you?”
This approach helps PDAers because it reduces stress and gives them a sense of control. PDAers resist demands due to anxiety, not because they are defiant. When adults understand this, they stop using pressure and start using collaboration.