Behavior modification techniques

Behavior and Behavior Modification

We live modeled by various behavior modification techniques. Many of these we endured during our childhood, and the positive effect of these is visible in our current behavior. For example, we are taught to respect the elderly, be patient and tolerant to other people, be confident but fair etc. All these things need to be learned and our parents taught us these in various ways.

Wrong behavior can either be prevented before it even shows itself or can be treated and remedied after its occurrence. Naturally, different techniques are used for both of these things. If a behavior problem occurs, parents usually, observe it, identify it and then target it only to stop it eventually. Thus, in order to prevent behavior issues beforehand one needs to be aware of the adequate techniques and methods of achieving this.

Moreover, behavior modification can be used for treating both children and adults in cases of attention deficit disorder or hyperactivity issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, treating phobias and personality disorders as well as bed wetting and other, similar problems.

Behavior Modification Techniques

One of the best behavior modification techniques is positive reinforcement. Namely, a child is taught to do something good. Each time he/she does it, he/she is to be rewarded for the efforts invested into being good.

However, children can use this techniques for their own benefit. Then, this misuse is stopped by removing the reward from the picture. This is needed when a child receives all he/she wants through crying, begging, or acting absent and antisocial.

If the child is acting against the rules of a proper conduct, time out is an excellent technique. It is a punishment which requires “banishing” the disobedient child from the group or the activity he/she is in, due to his/her inappropriate behavior. This can help the child realize he/she has done something wrong and paid for it, avoiding the wrong behavior in the future, only to avoid being punished anew.

Additionally methods of dealing with disobedience is through punishment as a direct product of doing something which is forbidden. However, here the child needs to know the rules beforehand.

Also, penalty is a great way of dealing with a problematic child. For example, grounding the child or restricting certain privileges may prove to be quite constructive in the long run.

Thus, you need to come up with a productive system of behavior modification and stick to it no matter what. Do not forget to reward and praise your child for behaving adequately. However, do not avoid punishment or some other methods when the child is disobedient.