Conditioning techniques

• According to behaviourists our actions can be influenced through classical and operant conditioning.
• At home- techniques like the 'naughty step' are criticised by childcare experts. Morris (2014) claims that the 'naughty step' can have long-term negative emotional effects, Womack (2006) has stated the naughty step is being over-used. It can cause psychological harm, lowering a childs self-esteem may be lowered as a result of the 'naughty' label.
• At home- positive reinforcement/punishment has increased positive behaviours. Gill (1998) found that using pocket money for chores increased the amount of chores done by 20%. The positive impact conditioning techniques can have on childrens behaviour in the home.
• At school- Montessori education systems believe that the rewards and punishments are harmful to a childs development. Children aren't exposed to operant conditioning using this educational technique as they will not be positively reinforced by achieving good grades, children might not be encouraged to maintain good grades
• At school- many schools use conditioning techniques to help manage behaviour. McAllister et al(1969) found that 'teaching praise' led to a decrease in 'inappropriate talking'. Levitt et al(2010) found financial incentives resulted in better performance.
• Economic/social implications- conditioning techniques has an important effect on society. Lovaas(1987) developed the Applied Behaviour Analysis(ABA) to increase the frequency of social interactions with autistic children. The therapy shapes the behaviour of the child by rewarding ideal behaviour.
• Conclusion-parents,schools and others all have an obligation to ensure that children grow up able to function within the society they live in. Social Learning Theory(SLT) suggests that we can learn effectively through observation of role models.