Section 9: Techniques Based on Behavioral Approaches Using Positive Reinforcement

Founder of Behavior Modification

B.F. Skinner

Basis of Behavior Modification

Operant conditioning — behavior is shaped by reinforcement and punishment.

Positive Reinforcement

Stimulus added → behavior increases (reward).

Negative Reinforcement

Stimulus removed → behavior increases (relief).

Punishment

Stimulus added or removed → behavior decreases

Reinforcement Rule

Reinforcement must come immediately after the target behavior

Goal of Behavioral Techniques

Increase desirable behavior using immediate, consistent rewards

Assessing Problem Behavior

Consider frequency, magnitude, and duration of the behavior

Multicultural Implications

Works well in directive, action-oriented cultures (Arab, Asian, Latino, African descent)

Premack Principle Definition

Preferred activity is used as a reward for completing a less preferred behavior.

How to Implement Premack Principle

• Assess preferred activities

• Explain rule: preferred activity only after target behavior

• No partial credit — must complete task first

Variations of Premack Principle

Can be paired with a token economy.

Usefulness of Premack Principle

Helps with food refusal, ADHD.

Limitation of Premack Principle

Sometimes low-probability behaviors act as reinforcers for high-probability ones.

Behavior Chart Definition

Tracks and reinforces specific behaviors at set points throughout the day

Tracks and reinforces specific behaviors at set points throughout the day

• Define specific behaviors

• Rate on a set schedule

• Share results

• Determine rewards and consequences

Usefulness of Behavior Charts

Improves classroom behavior, encourages obedience, and tracks progress easily

Token Economy Definition

Clients earn tokens for desired behaviors, then exchange for rewards

How to Implement Token Economy

• Identify target behaviors

• Create clear rules

• Choose tokens and reinforcers

• Set token “prices”

• Track and exchange consistently

Variations of Token Economy

Response cost, mystery motivator, self-monitoring, group or individual use

Usefulness of Token Economy

Used for disruptive behavior, ADHD, emotional issues, phobias, and school participation

Criticisms of Token Economy

May lower intrinsic motivation and not generalize to real-world behavior

Behavioral Contract Definition

Written agreement between two or more people specifying behavior goals and consequences

Strength of Behavioral Contracts

Promotes consistency and accountability

How to Implement Behavioral Contract

• Identify target behavior

• Discuss and draft contract

• Include details (goals, reinforcements, consequences, follow-up)

• Sign and review progress

• Modify as needed

Variations of Behavioral Contracts

One-party, two-party, quid pro quo, self-contracts

Usefulness of Behavioral Contracts

Builds new behaviors, reduces unwanted behaviors, improves academic/social skills, used in schools, prisons, hospitals, and treatment settings