Positive Reinforcement Strategies to Improve Behavior: Unleashing the Power of Effective Techniques

In the world of parenting, positive reinforcement techniques have gained popularity due to its effectiveness in improving children's behaviors. Perhaps you have heard other parents discussing the role of positive reinforcement in disciplining children or it has been a discussion amongst school teachers, but you are not sure where to begin or how positive reinforcement could possibly limit undesirable behaviors. 

This article will explore positive and negative reinforcement, and answer the question of, "how does positive reinforcement work?" This article will also discuss the type of behaviors that should be reinforced and introduce how Joon can help your child. Keep reading to learn more!

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Positive and Negative Reinforcement

When modifying your child's behaviors, two types of reinforcement can be implemented and these are known as positive and negative reinforcement. Positive and negative reinforcement are helpful behavior management techniques that reinforce appropriate behavior and reduce negative behavior. 

With positive reinforcement, something is added to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening again. 

Negative reinforcement involves when something is removed, such as an aversive stimulus, to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening in the future. 

You can distinguish between the two types of reinforcements based on whether something is being added to the situation or taken away. 

Positive Reinforcement

According to the American Psychological Association, positive reinforcement involves presenting a positive reinforcer following a behavior. Positive reinforcement focuses on shaping behavior by reinforcing the positive and encouraging more desired behaviors in the future.

For instance, positive reinforcement works by encouraging positive behaviors in children such as following instructions, engaging in tasks, listening, and sharing with others. It also reduces behaviors that can be deemed undesirable or inappropriate. With consistent and appropriate use, you will begin to notice that positive reinforcement works much better than using punishment. 

Negative Reinforcement

Negative reinforcement is a behavior modification technique that works by removing something from the environment to encourage positive behaviors. 

For example, negative reinforcement in the classroom might involve taking away a toy that a child refuses to share. When the item is removed from the situation to reinforce a more desirable behavior, this will in turn encourage prosocial behaviors.

How Does Positive Reinforcement Work?

Generally, positive reinforcement involves catching the child "doing good" and ultimately rewarding a target behavior. When children are rewarded for the desired action, they are more likely to engage in this action more often.

Researchers stated that positive reinforcement is an effective strategy for encouraging new behaviors when it is used consistently and appropriately. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics stated how the most effective way to improve behavior in children is by giving them a lot of attention when they are doing something desirable. When your child is learning a new behavior, be consistent in offering positive reinforcement. Your child will begin to notice that behaving in a way that results in positive attention or that is positively reinforced, will motivate them to continue engaging in these behaviors. Eventually these behaviors will become a habit!

When you abide by reinforcement schedules, you are regularly noticing your child engage in desired behaviors and calling them out for it. If parents occasionally catch their child doing "good," and they are not consistent, then the behavior will likely not change. 

Positive Reinforcement Examples

There are a variety of ways to use positive reinforcement or rewards to shape behavior. In addition, positive reinforcement does not have to include tangible reinforcers. Positive reinforcers can include:

• providing verbal praise for efforts or for engaging in a particular behavior
• Clapping and cheering
• Giving your child a hug or pat on the bat immediately following the specific behavior
• Allowing your child to participate in a special or fun activity, such as playing a board game or allowing extra time to play a video game

Positive reinforcement can also be an effective behavior management strategy in the school setting. Examples of classroom management strategies involving positive reinforcement can include:

• Using a reward system when a child engages in a particular behavior or does well on an assignment
• Sending a positive note home to express praise, encouragement, and positive feedback
• Utilizing positive language or verbal praise when a specific behavior occurs
• Physical rewards such as stickers, tokens, or candy

What Type of Behaviors Should Be Reinforced

Psychologists recommend utilizing non-tangible rewards to reinforce good behavior. This also increases intrinsic motivation to do good and behave appropriately. As opposed to tangible rewards, consider using verbal praise or positive language to promote certain behaviors and reduce bad behavior. But, what types of behaviors should be reinforced?

Positive Behavior

Positive reinforcement techniques are incredibly effective when they are used consistently to encourage a desired behavior. When a child does well in school or demonstrates positive behavior, it should be rewarded. 

Examples of positive and acceptable behavior include:

• Engaging in and completing chores assigned to them (check out Joon for more information on this topic)
• Being a good and supportive friend
• Sharing toys with others
• Following directions immediately
• Engaging in a task immediately
• Being a good sport
• Helping family members without complaining
• Playing nicely with other students
• Using manners
• Waiting patiently for their turn
• Showing compassion to others
• Putting in a lot of effort on a task that is more difficult

These are just a few examples of behaviors that should be positively reinforced. The more that you, as a parent, provide positive reinforcement for good behavior, the more your child will behave appropriately in the future.

Accidental Positive Reinforcement

Accidental positive reinforcement or the positive reinforcement trap is when negative behavior is accidentally reinforced. For instance, if a child misbehaves and a parent gives them extra attention for this behavior, the child is likely to learn that their negative behavior will get them more attention.

In addition, when a parent gives in to a child who is misbehaving in hopes to diminish the behavior, this misbehavior is again, being reinforced. 

For instance, if a child is whining in the store because they want a box of cookies, and the parent gives in, allowing them to have the snack, the whining has been positively reinforced. Therefore, this teaches the child that whining is an effective way to get a desired outcome and further motivates the child to engage in this new behavior again.

So, what can you do instead? Ignore! Experts suggest that ignoring can be one of the most effective ways to respond to a child's behavior that is ultimately attention-seeking. 

Every Child is Different

Every child is unique and what works well for one child might not work at all for another, and that's ok. It is best to select strategies that work well for you and your family, as well as keeping your child's temperament and personality in mind. 

Regardless of the strategies and techniques you choose to utilize to shape your child's behavior, it is important to always practice consistency, boundary-setting, kindness, empathy, and encouragement. These basic skills will go a long way in molding your child into a successful and happy adult.

How Joon Can Help

Joon is an app that has been developed to help children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) complete to-dos and complete tasks.

With the help of Joon, parents can assign tasks as "Quests" and Joon will do the rest. Your child will choose a virtual pet, which they will help feed, wash, and grow by completing the tasks that are assigned to them through the app!

Joon can help positively reinforce behaviors as 90% of children who have utilized Joon complete all of the tasks that are assigned to them by their parents. Not only is Joon loved by 200k+ families worldwide, but it is also approved by therapists, teachers, and psychologists! 

Help motivate your child today with a free 7-day trial with Joon.

Takeaway 

Positive reinforcement works by focusing on the good and reinforcing the desired behavior. 

As you are navigating through the challenges and obstacles that come up with parenting, it is important to be patient with yourself. Incorporating positive reinforcement strategies into your child's everyday life will not only improve your child's behaviors, but also their confidence and self-esteem. This will ultimately lead to a more positive learning environment at home and in the classroom for everyone involved.