Behavior modification deals with negative behaviors by teaching the patient the consequences of his negative actions. This type of therapy is usually started when the patient is a child. The goal is to increase the appropriate behaviors and decrease the inappropriate behaviors, according to the University of Minnesota. If successful, the patient will have improved relationships with other people, and be accountable for his actions.
Reward System
The Ohio State University Medical Center states that when doing behavior modification, a reward system is used where the child receives tangible rewards for positive behaviors. For example, for every good behavior or response the child gives, she receives a certain number of points. After saving up enough points, she can trade them in for a prize, such as a toy. The reward system of behavior modification teaches the patient that she is only going to receive rewards when she behaves. It can also increase the child's self-esteem, since she earned his prize by herself.
Learned Consequences
The patient also learns consequences when he acts inappropriately, which discourages the negative behavior. This can be an important lesson for the child, especially if he did not receive any consequences for his behaviors before the therapy began. The Ohio State University Medical Center notes that a time out or quiet room may be used. However, Valdosa State University warns against using a punishment tactic when teaching the patient consequences for his actions. This can result in hostility and aggression, which can make treatment difficult. Instead, the practitioner should encourage rewards for good behavior, which cannot be given when the patient is acting out. One example is revoking points when the patient misbehaves, which further reinforces the idea that only good behavior gets rewarded.
Improvement of Behavior and Emotions
The overall benefit of behavior modification is an improvement of behavior. Positive behaviors are introduced, taught and reinforced through a reward system. To maintain the new behavior, Valdosa State University recommends changing the reward so the patient continues to have motivation. Inappropriate behaviors are discouraged by not rewarding them, and by teaching consequences. This helps the patient function normally and learn that acting out is not acceptable. Behavior modification can also help improve emotional responses, such as helping the patient get over a specific fear.
