When faced with challenging behaviors, a gut response sometimes is reprimanding, harsh or loud language, or other negative consequences. A situation we may see: A child hits their sibling and obtains access of a preferred toy; a caregiver then sternly yells or scolds the child. While this may seem effective in stopping challenging behavior in the short-term, research has shown that punishment consequence-based strategies often are ineffective in changing behavior in the long-term.

What is recommended instead of punishment? Positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors! This may include hugs, high-fives, words of behavior-specific praise, a token system, and more. When positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors is used effectively, targeted positive behavior increases, and challenging behavior decreases in the long-term.

This November, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a statement recommending that parents use healthy forms of discipline, including primarily using positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors. In the principles of behavior analysis, and reiterated in the statement by the AAP, we know that the most effective way to change behavior in the long-term is through positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors, in conjunction with individualized prevention strategies and teaching new skills, instead of negative punishment and consequence procedures.

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