Behavior Modification: Definition, History, and References
Behavior modification is a type of psychological treatment that is used to alter undesirable behaviors in order to achieve desired outcomes. It is based on the principles of operant conditioning, which posits that behaviors can be modified through the use of rewards and punishments. Behavior modification is often used in settings such as schools, workplaces, and residential facilities to help people learn new behaviors or modify existing ones.
Definition
Behavior modification is defined as a technique for altering behavior through the use of positive and negative reinforcement. It is based on the principles of operant conditioning, which were developed by B.F. Skinner in the 1930s. According to this theory, behavior is shaped by its consequences. Positive reinforcement involves the use of rewards to encourage desired behaviors, while negative reinforcement involves the withholding of rewards or the application of punishments to discourage undesired behaviors.
History
Behavior modification has a long history in psychology. It was first developed by B.F. Skinner in the 1930s and has since become a widely accepted and widely used treatment method. It has been used in numerous settings, including schools, workplaces, residential treatment facilities, and clinical settings. It has been found to be effective in helping people learn new behaviors or modify existing ones.
References
American Psychological Association. (2018). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.
Kilgus, S. P., & Baranek, G. T. (2020). Applied behavior analysis and behavior modification. In S. Goldstein & J. A. Naglieri (Eds.), Handbook of child psychology and developmental science (7th ed., Vol. 1). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Linscheid, T. R., & Martens, B. K. (2018). Behavior modification: Principles and procedures (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.
Skinner, B. F. (1938). The behavior of organisms: An experimental analysis. New York, NY: Appleton-Century-Crofts.
Wong, B. Y. L., & Wong, R. T. (2017). The first days of school: How to be an effective teacher (5th ed.). Mountain View, CA: Harry K. Wong Publications.