Which of the following alternatives to punishment represents the BEST method for reducing a problem behavior?
A)Jose is reinforced for working quietly in class instead of being punished for talking in class.
B)Charlene is picked up and cuddled whenever she has a temper tantrum.
C)Shane and Jason have to stay after school because they had a fight at the start of class in the morning.
D)Because of her defiant behavior, Lana is told that she will not be eligible to get gold stars or stickers for her homework.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reinforcing a desirable alternative behavior is the best method for reducing problem behaviors. Punishment can often suppress behavior temporarily, but it does not promote long-term change and can lead to negative side effects such as resentment, avoidance, and aggression. In this scenario, Jose is being reinforced for working quietly in class, which should make this behavior more likely to occur in the future and reduce the likelihood of talking in class.

Which of the Following Alternatives to Punishment Represents the BEST