Human Rights, Forensic Psychology & Behaviour Support with Dr. Astrid Birgden

Listen to this episode from Behaviour Bits on Spotify. In this episode of *Behaviour Bits*, Jenn sits down with Dr. Astrid Birgden, a forensic clinical psychologist and behaviour support specialist with over four decades of experience. Astrid shares her insights on the intersection of forensic psychology, disability, and positive behaviour support, shedding light on how human rights can and should be upheld—even in complex cases involving individuals with intellectual disabilities and offending behaviours.Throughout the conversation, Astrid discusses her pioneering work in forensic disability services, the Good Lives Model, and how therapeutic jurisprudence can shape a more humane approach to rehabilitation. She explores how professionals can balance dignity of risk with duty of care, improve quality of life for clients, and ensure that positive behaviour support is truly *positive*—rather than just a compliance exercise. Whether you’re working in disability, corrections, or psychology, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to inform your practice.Additional Resources:https://www.goodlivesmodel.com/Compendium of Resources for Positive Behaviour Supporthttps://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-10/Compendium%20of%20Resources%20for%20Positive%20Behaviour%20Support%20%20%20A%20guide%20for%20behaviour%20support%20practitioners%20-%20March%202019.docxPositive Practice Frameworkhttps://www.dffh.vic.gov.au/information-behaviour-support-practitionersCooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.