BEHAVIORS - MyHope

Main Points of Behavior Management Training

I. Theories of Behavior 1. Behaviors are observable phenomena which can be: A. Defined in concrete terms B. Altered by changing aspects of the environment 2. Behavior is influenced by the interaction of these factors: A. Characteristics of the child (e.g., learning style, motivation, etc..) Effects of autism includes discussion of social, communication, and sensory […]

Influences on Behavior: A Worksheet

Child: _____________________ Observer: ________________ Date/Time: _________________ Setting: _________________ Target Behavior: _____________________________ Definition of Behavior: ________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Behavior can be influenced by three factors: the child’s characteristics, the features of the environment, and the characteristics of the child’s interactive partner. Which of the following characteristics of autism/PDDNOS might influence this behavior? (check all […]

How to Use Reinforcers to Reward Appropriate Behavior

Definition: A reinforcer is an item or event that follows a behavior and increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again. Reinforcers are rewards for appropriate behavior. Reinforcers will differ from child to child, and will vary over time. Here’s a step-by-step method for using reinforcers to increase appropriate behavior: 1. Identify a […]

How to Employ Intervention Techniques for Reducing Problem Behavior

Step 1. REINFORCING THE ABSENCE OF A NEGATIVE BEHAVIOR 1. Clearly define the negative behavior and begin the assessment process to determine the function, frequency, duration, antecedents and consequences, etc. 2. When you observe the child doing anything but the negative behavior, provide additional attention, tangible objects, stimulation, or escape from tasks or environments. Use […]

Supporting Persistence in Children with Developmental Disabilities

“Persistence,” “mastery motivation,” “goal-directedness,” “causality,” “agency” are all terms that can be applied to understanding how an individual perceives his or her competence in impacting the environment or responding to task demands. Although the terminology differs depending upon one’s theoretical orientation, there is consensus across conceptual fields on the following concepts: (1) The processes of […]

A-B-C Worksheet

Steps: 1) Choose one behavior to observe. Example: Tantrums 2) Define/describe that behavior clearly on the top of the form.Example: “Tantrums — a tantrum begins when Jon throws his body onto the floor, shakes his arms and kicks his legs, makes loud noises, and rolls his body from side to side. A tantrum ends when […]

Techniques for Reducing Problem Behaviors

I. GENERAL INTERVENTION GUIDELINES 1. Always try these techniques at home first, where you have greater control over your environment. 2. Be prepared for your child’s behavior to get worse before it gets better. 3. These techniques become more effective over repeated, consistent use. 4. The best way to judge whether the intervention is working […]

Identifying Adaptive Alternative Behaviors

Undesirable Behaviors Desirable Behaviors Tantrums Sits quietly Hits others Hands down Throws toys Uses toys appropriately Runs away Comes when called, stays within borders, stops when asked Bites hand Folds/squeezes hands Flaps hands Plays with toys appropriately Screams Appropriate communication, quiet behavior Noncompliance Follows directions Lack of initiative Begins activities Repetitive play Functional play Resists […]

Three Methods for Increasing Desired Behaviors

1. Catching the good behavior when it occurs naturally and reinforcing it. Your child learns best when reinforcement is: Immediate Natural to the situation Frequent Predictable 2. Teaching the good behavior by setting up situations when it can occur. Your child learns best when: Expectations are concrete, small Rewards are predictable and consistent He/she always […]

Nothing is Rewarding to this Child!

Many of us have said this about a child at one time or another. It reflects our frustration in getting and keeping a child’s attention. It describes a child’s lack of responsiveness to our teaching. It usually suggests a lack of progress — we’re just not getting anywhere: Something must be done. What do we […]

Characteristics of Autism: Observation Form

Child’s Name: _______________ Observer: _______________ Date: _____________ Social Behaviors (1=not very true, 5=very true) A. Fails to initiate interactions with adults 1 2 3 4 5 B. Fails to initiate interactions with peers C. Fails to respond to initiations from adults D. Fails to respond […]

Go Ahead and Ask: Going to the Grocery Store

Question: It is impossible to take my 5-year old to the grocery store. A trip to Walmart is an absolute nightmare. What can I do so that I can get my shopping done without my kid losing it? Signed,Chaotic in the Checkout Line Dear Chaotic, This is a very common problem, one that we hear […]