Behavior Modification

What is Behavior Modification?

Behavior modification is simply a plan to change an undesirable behavior or behaviors by using positive and/or negative reinforcement. As parents, we use behavior modification virtually every day, although we may not realize that we are practicing this method. For example, when a child is potty training, we find ways to give positive feedback every time the child uses the potty successfully. This feedback may be in the form of praise or a treat, but whatever method we choose to use, we are trying to emphasize a desirable behavior in the child.

This type of modification is often used within the classroom, and while it may be associated with behavior disorders, such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it is also used for many kids who have not been issued particular diagnoses.

Techniques

In order to adequately practice behavior modification, you must incorporate specific techniques, which can be used in the classroom and in the home. These techniques include the following:

Stop Negative Behavior

There are actually several methods that can be used during behavior modification to discourage or stop a child from acting negatively. While one method may work well for one child, another method may show more positive results with someone else. In other words, you may have to practice some trial and error before you discover the best method to use with your kid.

• Verbally tell the child the consequences of his actions, such as retraction of rewards, etc.
• Take away privileges. Be aware that taking away too many privileges at one time, however, could result in a more negative response.
• Practice scenarios, and help your child learn how to react appropriately.
• If a child is afraid of a certain situation, help the child overcome this fear with gradual exposure to the intimidating environment.

Practice a New Behavior

A child may not realize that her behavior is unacceptable until she is shown a new, desirable behavior that she should follow. In many cases, the behavior must be modeled, and as the behavior is practiced, positive reinforcement is used to encourage the child to continue that behavior. Parents and educators should not only reward good behavior, however. They should also look for ways to help a child avoid negative behavior patterns. This may be as simple as changing a child's seat in the classroom, or rearranging a child's after school schedule. It may also involve more one-on-one time between the child and her teachers and parents.

Strengthen That Behavior

Once a particular behavior has been established, it's time to help the child become more adept at using that behavior. In time, the goal of strengthening a desirable reaction is to make it the common pattern of a child's daily life. In other words, his first choice will be to react in a positive manner, not a negative one. This can be done with praise and simple rewards.

Maintain Good Behavior

Once a child's positive behavior patterns have been established, and those behaviors have grown stronger, it's time to help your child remain consistent. Sometimes new rewards and/or feedback must be used to encourage a child to believe that there is a reason for him to continue to perform in a positive way.

Additional Help and Resources

For more information and help on the topic of behavior modification, check out the following sites:

• Troubled Teen
• Help Your Teen
• Family Education
• Teachers.net