Intersectionality in Practice: Valuing Individual Differences

Intersectionality is a crucial lens through which we can understand the diverse experiences of individuals, particularly within the disability and behaviour support sectors. It recognises that people’s identities are shaped by multiple, overlapping factors, such as disability, culture, gender, and socioeconomic status, which influence their access to opportunities and support. This aligns with the contextual behavioural science approach by understanding learning histories and previous reinforcement histories that influence contextual situations day-to-day. By applying intersectional thinking to Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), we can create truly inclusive, person-centred approaches that respect and value individual differences.

Why Intersectionality Matters in Behaviour Support

Traditional models of behaviour support often take a one-size-fits-all, micro-level approach, overlooking how multiple social and personal factors interact to shape a person’s lived experience and really zooming out. An intersectional perspective ensures that support strategies are tailored to each individual, acknowledging the unique barriers they may face.

For example, an autistic woman from a culturally diverse background may experience different challenges compared to a non-autistic person of the same background or an autistic man from the same cultural group. Without recognising these complexities, behaviour support services risk providing interventions that do not align with a person’s actual needs or priorities.

Centring the Voice of the Participant

A core principle of PBS and the NDIS is that individuals must have a say in their own support plans. Intersectionality enhances this principle by ensuring that people’s full identities are considered when making decisions about their care. This approach aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), which advocates for autonomy, dignity, and equal access to opportunities.

Centring the participant’s voice means:

• Listening to their lived experiences without assumption or bias

• Ensuring communication supports are in place so everyone can express their needs

• Collaborating with families, cultural communities, and multidisciplinary teams to develop relevant and respectful support plans

Practical Applications in Positive Behaviour Support

Incorporating intersectionality into PBS means:

• Adapting supports to cultural needs – Recognising how cultural norms shape behaviour, communication, and social expectations and understanding culture is very varied and encompasses many iterations.

• Respecting gender and identity diversity – Ensuring supports affirm a person’s gender identity and personal experiences.

• Understanding the impact of socioeconomic factors – Acknowledging how financial barriers and access to resources influence behaviour and opportunities.

• Addressing systemic barriers – Advocating for changes in service delivery that ensure all individuals, regardless of their background, receive equitable support.

By embedding these principles into behaviour support planning, practitioners can create environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. This leads to more effective support strategies, greater social inclusion, and improved quality of life.

Intersectionality in practice is about more than recognising diversity. It's about taking meaningful action to ensure behaviour support services are inclusive, responsive, and equitable. By centring the voice of the participant and considering the full scope of their lived experience, we can create support plans that honour their autonomy and align with their values and goals.

What aspect of intersectionality do you see as most crucial in behaviour support?

• Adapting supports to cultural needs
• Respecting gender and identity diversity
• Addressing systemic barriers
• Considering socioeconomic factors