Positive reinforcement: a tool to model behavior (Part 1)

As a parent, you might want to mold your child's behavior in various ways. In the early years, it is a constant effort; you're training, disciplining, and seeing them improve day after day. Your child saying or doing certain things, picking up on what they've learned from you, can make you swell with joy. 

However, what about the opposite? Have you lost your patience when things went wrong? More so after you, even with repeated instructions, feel like you've failed? Forcing kids to do something or criticizing them could be demotivating, which is something to keep in mind. Instead, using motivation can be a more accessible, less damaging way to achieve desired outcomes. Researchers call this positive reinforcement. The idea is to use reason and encouragement to parent children. 

Tangible reinforcement is a material reward for positive behavior. When you give your child a little something for when they do the right thing, that is tangible reinforcement. Not be confused with a bribe, a reward for doing something they will not otherwise do. Tangible reinforcements, on the other hand, can increase the frequency of already existing behavior. For instance, if your child picks up their toys after playing, you can give them a cookie. You can also let them know why you rewarded them. Doing so could encourage them to pick up their toys the next time they play.

Natural reinforcement happens when the reward for positive behavior results from actions. For example, suppose a child is consistent with their homework and completes all assignments on time. Natural cause-effect flow dictates hard work studying results in good grades. 

Social reinforcement involves the child's approval or recognition from others. Children act in ways that make others feel good. If they make a friend laugh with their jokes or make a teacher smile by smiling at them first, it gives them a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

Depending on what you wish to achieve regarding your child's behavior, you can choose any of the above positive reinforcement techniques. It can work wonders for young children who have only started exploring this big beautiful world. An essential benefit of such reinforcers is that your child might enjoy the behavior modeling processes, and that's always welcome!

Disclaimer: The information provided on this site is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, provide medical or behavioral advice, treat, prevent, or cure any disease, condition, or behavior. You should consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your child’s development to make a medical diagnosis, determine a treatment for a medical condition, or obtain other related advice.

Reference

1. Positive Reinforcement in Psychology (Definition + 5 Examples)
2. Positive Reinforcement Examples, Strategies, and Benefits - Avaz Inc.