In the diverse landscape of educational psychology, school psychologists play a crucial role in supporting students’ academic and emotional well-being. A critical part of this involves addressing behavior challenges in a way that is empathetic, effective, and sustainable. Dr. Ross Greene’s Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model provides a powerful framework for understanding and helping students with behavioral difficulties. This blog post is tailored to guide school psychologists through the principles and applications of the CPS model.
Understanding the CPS Model
The CPS model is rooted in the belief that challenging behaviors occur when the demands and expectations being placed on a child outstrip the child’s capacity to respond adaptively. It represents a significant departure from traditional disciplinary approaches that often emphasize reward and punishment. Instead, CPS focuses on problem-solving and building partnerships between adults and children.
Key Principles:
- Kids do well if they can: This principle suggests that if a child could do well, they would do well, and if they’re not doing well, there’s something getting in the way.
- Challenging behaviors are a form of communication: Behaviors are an indication that there are unsolved problems and lagging skills.
- Collaboration, rather than unilateral adult control: Adults and children work together to understand the underlying problems and to come up with solutions that work for both parties.
CPS in Practice: The Process for School Psychologists
Implementing the CPS model involves several steps that require patience, active listening, and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
Step 1: Empathy Step
Start by gathering information from the student’s perspective. Identify the student’s concerns and what is contributing to their challenging behavior. Use reflective listening to ensure the student feels heard and understood.
Step 2: Define the Problem Step
Clearly identify the expectations that the student is having difficulty meeting. Address the specific conditions where the challenging behavior occurs.
Step 3: Invitation Step
Engage the student in a brainstorming process to come up with mutually satisfactory solutions. The emphasis should be on addressing the problems underlying the behavior, rather than on controlling the behavior itself.
Application Examples for School Psychologists
Here are some ways school psychologists can integrate the CPS model into their practice:
- Case Conferences: Use the CPS approach as a framework for discussing students with teachers and parents.
- Training Sessions: Educate school staff on the CPS model and the importance of collaboration and proactive solutions.
- Direct Intervention: Facilitate problem-solving sessions with students who exhibit behavioral challenges, engaging in the step-by-step CPS process.
For school psychologists, the CPS model offers a compassionate and constructive approach to addressing challenging behaviors. By fostering collaboration and skill-building, rather than resorting to punishment, we can help students develop resilience and the ability to tackle life’s social and emotional challenges. The CPS model aligns with our commitment to support the holistic development of every student, and incorporating this approach could fundamentally transform the way we cultivate supportive and responsive school environments.
Dr. Ross Greene’s framework empowers both children and adults to resolve conflicts, ensuring that students’ needs are met and their potential is realized. As school psychologists, it’s in our purview to lead this positive change, equipping our schools with tools that not only address behavior but also build character.
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[To learn more about Dr. Ross Greene and his Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model, visit his website or read his book, titled The Explosive Child.](https://www.livesinthebalance.org/)