Brian's Misbehavior
I have researched four possible theories that could explain Brian’s misbehavior. After reading your referral, I decided on two theories that Brian’s behavior falls under most closely. One is the social learning theory, thought up by Albert Bandura (Berk, 2014). His explanation to this theory was that, if you have a baby and clap or even smile at them, they will clap or smile back at you (Berk, 2014). The other theory I decided on was behavior operant conditioning. The man to be credited for this theory is B.F Skinner (Berk, 2014). He observed that when you give an infant a stimulus that the baby enjoys, after an action they do, the probability of them doing that action again will become greater (Berk, 2014). He also noted that if you take the
…show more content…
This position allows you to manipulate his educational atmosphere. Being able to do this can make a big difference in Brian’s life. Applying Skinners theory of behaviorism-operant conditioning, you could essentially condition Brian into changing his poor behaviors at school. From the textbook Development Through the Lifespan, “According to Skinner, the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcements, such as food, praise, or a friendly smile. It can also be decreased through punishment, such as disapproval or withdrawal of privileges” (Berk, 2014 pg.17). To apply the theory, you should sit down with the principal and Brian, and explain your plan to them on the types of enforcements you will uses to help Brian know when he is doing a good behavior and when he is doing a bad behavior. Have him come up with a few enforcements himself too. This way he feels more inclined to follow through with it. Some positive reinforcements could include giving him high fives when he doesn’t fight you on the way to the gym. You could also give him sweets or something that makes him happy. Some negative reinforcements could be having privileges take away, like recess or having lunch with friends. These can be given when he disrespects other students or when he steals money from someone. Having a conversation with him and the principal will help everyone be on the same page. Having everyone on the same page creates a stronger strategy of
This position allows you to manipulate his educational atmosphere. Being able to do this can make a big difference in Brian’s life. Applying Skinners theory of behaviorism-operant conditioning, you could essentially condition Brian into changing his poor behaviors at school. From the textbook Development Through the Lifespan, “According to Skinner, the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcements, such as food, praise, or a friendly smile. It can also be decreased through punishment, such as disapproval or withdrawal of privileges” (Berk, 2014 pg.17). To apply the theory, you should sit down with the principal and Brian, and explain your plan to them on the types of enforcements you will uses to help Brian know when he is doing a good behavior and when he is doing a bad behavior. Have him come up with a few enforcements himself too. This way he feels more inclined to follow through with it. Some positive reinforcements could include giving him high fives when he doesn’t fight you on the way to the gym. You could also give him sweets or something that makes him happy. Some negative reinforcements could be having privileges take away, like recess or having lunch with friends. These can be given when he disrespects other students or when he steals money from someone. Having a conversation with him and the principal will help everyone be on the same page. Having everyone on the same page creates a stronger strategy of