By Guest Blogger Jeff Stimpson
“Positive reinforcement,” a theory of childrearing that is the opposite of “bribery” and sort of the opposite of “punishment” offers several ideas for heading-off bad behavior and sloppy homework habits.
Positive reinforcement involves planning ahead, setting and communicating rules using specific techniques, and rewarding with “reinforcers” for tasks completed, with an eye to eliminating or improving behavior you don’t like. Negative threats are discouraged, as the parent often can’t carry through on those threats.
My 12-year-old son has autism, and among his behaviors that I don’t like are biting his own arm (lightly) when he’s frustrated and secretly turning up the TV volume when he’s watching “Elmo.” A typical positive exchange regarding Elmo volume might involve me looking Alex in the eye before the TV ever goes on and calmly telling him that if the volume gets too high, we will shut off the TV immediately. Or, to get him to do a chore, I might say, “Alex, no ice cream until you help make the beds.”
When he has made the bed or turned down Elmo, rewards can be “edibles” such as crackers or cookies, or “socials” such as high-fives or hugs or a “Nicely done!” We could also pair socials with any other type of reward, the idea being to gradually phase out the non-social rewards and just use the high-fives and hugs.
The method aims to avoid punishing. It helps in developing relationships and communication, and the more frequently it is used, the more effective it is – especially when the desired behavior involves a frequent and recurring activity such as homework.
Identify potential reinforcers (including edibles and socials as well as playtime, play activities, or toys) and deliver them as soon as possible after the desired behavior, such as doing homework on time. Delivering reinforcers should happen after the first time you ask for a task, not after the third time!
The reinforcer should match the effort of the job, too – one night’s homework might necessitate a small reinforcer, for instance, whereas completing a large book report might call for a larger reinforcer. Also, when possible, include other family members in the delivery of the reinforcer.
Praise is one of the most effective reinforcers, at least initially. When praising, use the person’s name, be sincere and clear, make eye contact, and identify the specific behavior being praised.