subject: Do behavior charts and rewards work? [print this page] Do behavior charts and rewards work? Do behavior charts and rewards work?
So many parenting books suggest using behavior charts and rewards, why does Family Centered Parenting not rely on these behavior modification techniques?
Essentially, the principles underlying behavior modification are in conflict with Choice Theory, the foundation of Family Centered Parenting. Behavior modification is coercive and relies on external reinforcers rather than internal responsibility to shape a childs behavior. For families it involves a great deal of record keeping and a constant search for the new reward that is still appealing to the child. The novelty of stickers or M&Ms as rewards starts to fade rather quickly. However, Choice Theory and behavior mod do align when it comes to giving praise. In Family Centered Parenting we talk about an Effective Communication Rule that states that we should catch our children doing something right and offer unconditional praise verbally and non-verbally (high five, pat on the back). Although technically a behavior modification technique, praising is not inconsistent with helping a child develop an internal sense of self-worth thereby increasing their power in a positive manner. There are times when a short term behavior modification program might be helpful to jump start a child on changing a particular behavior. An illustration might be useful.
At a family meeting there is a discussion about healthy eating. Becky, 12 years old, reports that she is concerned with her weight and would like to lose 10 lbs. before the summer. She asks her family for suggestions to remind her to stick to her diet plan. Her brother offers an idea. If Becky weighs herself once a week in front of the family and she loses weight, the family will allow her to pick any movie to watch that night. Becky agrees.
In this example, Becky is being externally rewarded for a behavior change. It is a form of behavior mod. However, the process followed to create the plan is what makes this approach acceptable. Becky brought up the issue at a family meeting and asked for help. She did not have this imposed upon her. A member of her family made a suggestion which Becky found acceptable because the reward was consistent with her need for fun and love and belonging with her family. In addition, the plan is narrow in focus, does not require a great deal of record keeping and most importantly involves the entire family. The conclusion is that behavior mod is a tool that under limited circumstances can have some use in bringing positive behavior change.
