Problem Behaviors--Part 2

The next part of the process of trying to solve problem behaviors is to create a behavior plan.

If we go with the premise that each behavior has some function, then the most effective way to change a behavior is to replace it with some other behavior. For some behaviors this means teaching the child a new skill, for others it may be just reinforcing a different behavior. The possibilities here are endless.

To figure out what we need to do, we complete the "ABC" part as described in Part 1, and use the information we have sorted out to drive what we will do to implement a "behavior plan."

For our sample question (see previous post), here are three steps I might try:

1) Planned ignoring--this is useful if the purpose of the behavior is to get attention (don't give the child any attention after they have stuck the object up their nose--the new consequence will now be that they have an uncomfortable object up their nose)--this by the way is one of the most effective things for tantrums--the key is not giving attention to the kid if they increase their behavior
2) Replace the child's behavior (sticking random objects up his nose) with another behavior. If we think the function is because he/she just thinks it is interesting or because they like the feeling of the things up his nose, we might try finding a toy where the child can stick small objects in holes, or something to replace that sensory need. If we think the function is to get attention, think about the "A" or antecedent--what is happening before hand??? Is there a way we can give him/her attention in some other way. Think about ways that would really work for your kid to get your attention and still be acceptable to you.
3) Reinforce the new behavior...some replacement behaviors simply are reinforcement enough, but if you are having the child do a new behavior to get your attention, you want to make sure you are giving them your attention when they do the new behavior.

If you have a hard time coming up with what you may think the function of your child's behavior is, and thus having a hard time coming up with replacement behaviors, it's okay. This isn't a natural process, but it can be very useful and very successful if you are consistent in your approach.

If you do try to implement something consistently and it doesn't work, go through the ABC's and come up with another strategy.

--Kelli and I have had more classes and workshops on this topic than we can count. If you want help with a specific problem behavior let us know and we'll try to walk you through different things you can try...we may just ask for a lot of information on the specific thing that you are struggling with!