Examining Modern Behavior Modification
Examining Modern Behavior Modification
The purpose of this assignment was to examine behaviour modification and its applications in various settings. Reinforcement is a key concept when determining the various methods of behaviour modification and its consequences. Some methods of behaviour modification are more effective than others and this modifies the respective consequence as a result. More thought must be given to the various consequence for a person’s action and this would eliminate numerous anxieties experienced through inappropriate behaviour. Social interaction is also greatly responsible for shaping our types of behaviour and the way in which we exhibit them.
Behaviour modification is defined as ‘a systematic approach to changing behaviour through the application of the principles of conditioning’(Weiten, 2001. P.256). To encourage people to adopt more appropriate behaviour, techniques are used to reward someone when the correct behaviour is used and to admonish someone when they act inadvertently. As a result of this, a person’s actions are responsible for the particular outcome of the situation. These techniques have been adopted successfully in many environments such as schools, prisons and hospitals. The presumed assumption defining behaviour modification is that ‘we do what we do in order to minimise those events or stimulus that we, as individuals, find to be aversive’(O’Leary, 1972). With learned behaviour, there are always consequences that follow as a result of one’s actions and the extent of pleasure depends on the effectiveness of these actions. Consequences that immediately follow the behaviour are far more effective than consequences that are delayed.
Reinforcement is a detailed concept that manipulates change and development in our behavioural patterns. Social Interaction is one of the primary determinants influencing the type and intensity of behaviour that we exhibit. We are subconsciously aware of what shapes and controls our behaviour due to the fact that we have not learned to recognise reinforcing stimulus. By learning to more carefully observe consequences of behaviour, habits can be adapted to derive the desired outcome. Behaviour that is rewarding is usually repeated, and behaviour that is discouraging is not likely to be repeated.
Any stimulus that maintains or accelerates behaviour is said to be a positive reinforcer. Positive reinforcement of behaviour is the most effective way of increasing the rate of specific desired behaviours. This is due to...