Question

For this “Reaction paper” I want you to create a method (using reinforcement only) to increase the frequency of a selected behavior of a family member, a friend or co-worker or even your pet. You will have to observe the subject and then carefully define the behavior that you want to increase in its frequency (for example, you might want to get your son to say thank you more often). This is theoretical only, I am not asking you to actually condition anyone.

Remember, this is a 500-word paper and should be written at the college level. I wasn’t very strict on the word count last time, but grading will become increasingly more difficult, so stick to 500 words (max of 510).

In your paper, clearly explain the following:

The behavior you wish to increase

The types of reinforcements you plan to use

How you would determine the type and schedule of reinforcement

How you would assess behavioral change

Answer 1

A behaviour, the likelihood of which shall increase with reinforcement could be, "increasing the hours invested by an adolescent in the family in his/her academics".

The reinforcements that could be used are both positve and negative. Positive reinforcements would take place during the times when a favourable behaviour is shown. Negative reinforcements would take place when an unfavourable behaviour is shown. The positive reinforcements could be in the form of verbal and non verbal appreciations and treats. The negative reinforcements could be in the form of abstaining the adolescent from a pleasurable activity, till the favourable behaviour is shown or making of a 'if and then' arrangement with the adolescent so that he/she shows appropriate academic performance. For example, if you finish your home assignment, then you may go for the event.

The schedule that could be used is a fixed-ratio schedule. An arrangement could be made that at the end of the week the number of hours spent on academics could be evaluated. If the performance has increased and less distractions were sighted, then a positive reinforcement in terms of verbal appreciations would take place. Also a monthly analysis would bring a treat for the adolescent. Failure on performing appropriately would call for a negative reinforcement depending upon the degree of the failure.

The behaviour could be assessed by a parent and then recorded on a daily basis. Daily recording of behaviour would give an elaborate picture of the adolescent's performance whereby the parents and the psychologist would be able to do a comparative analysis of the behavioural change.