Firstly it helps staff to begin the process of looking at unwanted behaviours objectively and approaching them with a calm and measured style. In knowing where the behaviour 'fits' is the start of being able to cope better. It also gives some guidelines, rather than strict rules as to how the outcomes should be managed and who needs to get involved. It also makes it clear that it's ok to involve others with certain children and certain behaviours if that provides a smoother transition for all. It is essential that we begin to see behaviour as a spectrum rather than an on and off switch of good or bad. The process also requires that certain stages are used and these allow the adult to look at what may have caused the incident and perhaps bring in other things that may avoid this in the future.
Secondly, the children begin to see some consistency in the way behaviours are managed. We don't really want the children challenging adults on the levelling, but I think it's good that they have a clear handle on how it all works. This builds involvement s as they can begin to anticipate the steps involved and perhaps even begin the process of resolution themselves. I have seen this happen many times using SBM and it's one of the key success indicators that we look for.