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Behavior Modification Prompting Technique

It is sometimes necessary to drastically modify a child's behavior in order for him to function in society. There are a number of techniques used, each with varying degrees of success. Modifying the behavior of a child is not an overnight event--it is a process.

  1. Positive Reinforcement

    • The goal is to modify unacceptable or bad behavior and replace it with good behavior. The best method with which to accomplish this is positive reinforcement. When the child does something good, they receive a reward. This can be in the form of praise, a hug or a token item. Bad or negative behavior is ignored unless it is destructive or dangerous. Children want your attention when their bad behavior only gets them ignored, they will try something else. Initially, this might be to worsen their behavior, but after a time they will learn from the positive feedback what gets them attention and they will focus on those activities and that pattern of behavior.

    Punishment

    • Physical punishment such as spanking is a negative reaction to a negative behavior. Children learn from the people around them, by modeled behavior. Some people consider a better form of punishment to be a time out. In time out, the child is removed from pleasurable activities. While in time out, the child should be ignored and allowed no interaction with others. Select a time out location in your home where the child will not have an audience and cannot see a television, but it should not be a closet or a bathroom. Generally, a child should stay in time out for one minute for every year of age.

    Your Commitment

    • In order for a behavior modification program to be successful you must be committed. Two primary factors will determine how successful the modification will be. The first is your consistency in applying the program. You cannot let your guard down or you risk a major setback. The second is your time. If you want time out to be effective you must have time in. If you do not spend time with your children why would they consider it a punishment to be separated from your attention? When your child craves your positive attention and feedback, time spent in time out will become far more effective.

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