1. Identify the Root Cause of the Problem
Behavior modification is rarely useful unless you fully understand the behavior you're trying to correct or encourage. Teachers and parents may consider all types of bad behavior as a form of attention seeking or assign arbitrary timetables that may not take the child's capabilities into account. Work to clearly define the problem and its causes, as well as a set goal. If you're a teacher, speak to the child's parents and get as much information as you can. Find out whether the child is capable of reaching your target goal and if not, what exactly he can achieve. Once you know that, you can craft behavior modification that addresses it properly, instead of just imposing arbitrary conditions.
2. Focus on a Proper Reinforcer
With the problem identified, you can craft a reinforcer that encourages the desired form of behavior. Reinforcers are broadly divided into two general categories. Positive reinforcement entails rewarding good behavior; for instance, praising a child who cleans up her room or providing a small reward like a piece of candy for doing her chores. Alternately, poor behavior can be discouraged with negative reinforcement, such as sending the child to her room if she throws a tantrum or withholding dessert after dinner for a specified period of time. Whatever the reinforcer, make sure it fits the specific issue and that the child understands what is involved before beginning. Not every reinforcer works for every child, so it is very important to know what is likely to work before you start to use it.
3. Apply the Reinforcer Early
Studies have shown that the earlier a reinforcer is applied, the more quickly the child will pick up on it. You should apply behavior modification as soon as possible and whenever the behavior occurs. Don't wait until later to give the child a reward or enforce a punishment. One way to encourage this is to set a larger goal that the child can work towards over a series of smaller steps. For example, you can set a specific number of chores over the week that must be performed in order for the child to watch a favorite DVD on Friday night. Steps (or demerits in the case of negative reinforcement) can be immediately noted while giving signs of progress towards a larger reward (or lapses towards a specified punishment). Knowing the "ground rules" early will better enable the child to conform to them.
4. Be Consistent in Your Application
You should apply the reinforcer consistently whenever it is called for. Letting an incident slide or overlooking one for expediency's sake will send mixed signals. The child is then more apt to become confused than adopt the desired behavior, which reduces the effectiveness of the reinforcers. Make your signals clear and consistent, and you will transfer your message much more efficiently.
5. Adjust the Reinforcer to Adapt to New Goals and Behavior
At the same time, you should not rigidly stick to the same behavioral reinforcers over a long period of time. Such rigidity can be damaging as the child becomes bored or indifferent to the reinforcers. Be prepared to refocus them in reaction to new interests and new environments. New forms of motivation should be used as the child grows, changes and takes on new interests.
