a child's inappropriate behavior is essentially the withholding of a reinforcer
that the child desires in the moment. This could be attention, a preferred toy, or some other reward that the child values. When a child misbehaves, it's typically because they're trying to obtain the reinforcer that they're not currently getting. For example, if a child is throwing a tantrum in a store because they want a toy, but their parent isn't buying it for them, the child is essentially withholding their good behavior until they get what they want. It's important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the reinforcers that their child desires and to make sure they're providing them appropriately, so that the child's behavior is more likely to be positive and appropriate.
A child's inappropriate behavior can sometimes be seen as the withholding of a reinforcer. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how this connection can be understood:
1. Identify the inappropriate behavior: Begin by observing and identifying the specific behaviors that are deemed inappropriate. This could include acts such as tantrums, aggression, defiance, or any other behavior that goes against societal norms or household rules.
2. Understand the concept of reinforcement: Reinforcement refers to the consequence or stimulus that follows a behavior and influences the likelihood of that behavior reoccurring in the future. Reinforcers can be positive (e.g., rewards, praise, privileges) or negative (e.g., removal of an aversive stimulus, escape from an unwanted task).
3. Analyze the function of behavior: Determine why the child is engaging in the inappropriate behavior. Inappropriate behavior can serve various functions, including attention-seeking, escape or avoidance of a task or situation, obtaining a desired item or activity, or self-stimulation.
4. Highlight the role of reinforcers: Consider how the child's inappropriate behavior may be withholding or accessing a reinforcer. For example, if a child throws a tantrum to gain attention from parents or caregivers, the reinforcer may be the attention received as a result of the behavior.
5. Identify the reinforcer being withheld: It is essential to identify the specific reinforcer that the child is attempting to access or avoiding by engaging in inappropriate behavior. This might involve analyzing the consequences that often follow the child's behavior or conducting a functional behavior assessment to better understand the underlying motivation.
6. Develop a behavior intervention plan: Once the reinforcer being withheld is identified, it is crucial to design a behavior intervention plan that focuses on teaching the child more appropriate ways to access or communicate their wants and needs. This plan should incorporate positively reinforcing alternative behavior and setting limits or consequences for inappropriate behavior.
By understanding the connection between a child's inappropriate behavior and the withholding of a reinforcer, interventions can be tailored to address the underlying reasons for the behavior and teach more appropriate behavior patterns.