What is the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions model by Dr Ross Greene?

Dr. Ross Greene is a child psychologist and author who is best known for his work on Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), a model for understanding and addressing challenging behavior in children. The CPS model is based on the idea that challenging behaviour is not simply a result of poor behaviour choices or a lack of willpower, but rather is a result of lagging skills in the areas of flexibility, frustration tolerance, and problem-solving. Challenging behaviour is thought to occur when the demands placed upon a child outstrip the skills they have to respond adaptively to those demands.

According to the CPS model, the best way to address challenging behavior is to work collaboratively with the child to identify and address the underlying skill deficits that are contributing to the behavior. This involves a proactive, solution-focused approach that involves open communication and active collaboration between the child, the parents, and any other relevant parties.

The CPS model has been shown to be effective in reducing challenging behavior and improving outcomes for children with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. It is particularly helpful for those kids who are often described as “quick to react” or “go from 0 to 100 instantly”. Dr. Greene has written several books, including ‘The Explosive Child’, which I recommend to many families.

So rather than imposing consequences (which might reduce the challenging behaviour in the short term but not address the underlying lagging skills), it might be helpful to reflect on what skills might my child be struggling with that is contributing to their challenging behaviour? And then come up with a plan on how to teach your child these skills.

For more information on the CPS model, check out The Explosive Child by Dr Ross Greene.