However, according to my intention of working primarily with children and teenagers I think the theory that better adjusts for my interests is Behaviorism, without setting aside other models. Working with children has a high impact on society, because whatever we teach children will be reflected on future society since they are the future. That is why to educate children on values and teach them to overcome their problems in a healthy way and try that they grow-up in positive behaviors is crucial for healthier societies.
When giving therapy to children we should take the role of counselors, supporters, and motivators. We must teach and direct or re-direct them through the process of behavioral change. How can we change behaviors on children? Well, as I stated above Behaviorism gives us a variety of techniques for using. Most of them techniques are truly useful with children since they are like sponges that absorb “everything”. Modeling, reinforcement, punishment, extinction, even desensitization and flooding are examples of the techniques that can be positively used with children. Some of these techniques are used in daily-life situations by parents with good results, but if they are applied scientifically they can maximize those positive results when treating children behavioral problems. As I mentioned at the beginning of this paper I do not think a theory is superior to others, it is just that one can be more appropriate for specific situations. I plan to follow the behavior therapy because can be successfully used where there is a specific behavioral problem, such as with school age children and youth. However, I know I will eventually use some techniques from other models of therapy if I think they
could be in benefit of my clients. I want to work primarily with children because I firmly believe that everything we do for improving their lives will be a big improvement in the future of this country, and I hope give to them useful tools for succeed. References Parrott, Les III. (2003). Counseling and Psychotherapy. Brooks-Cole/Thomson. pp.270, 272-274. Stockman, I. J., Boult, J., & Robinson, G. (2004, July 20). Multicultural issues in academic and clinical education: A cultural mosaic. The ASHA Leader, pp. 6-7, 20.