Posted: August 13th, 2015

Behaviour modifcation

Behaviour modifcation

Order Description

this is a self behaviour study so think wont require much refrences

Behaviour Modification – Some Background
Behaviour modification is a systematic approach to changing behaviour through the application of
learning principles. A great deal of research has established that the environment (in its
interactions with the organism) exerts substantial control over behaviour. Thus, changing
environmental contingencies (via antecedents and/or consequences) would be expected to
produce changes in behaviour. However, the notion of an interaction is important, in order for a
behaviour modification programme to successfully change behaviour it must be based on a sound
understanding of the contingencies maintaining the target behaviour. Behaviour modification has
been demonstrated to be very effective in a wide range of areas – e.g., education, industry,
childcare, prisons, mental health units etc.
This experiential learning activity will give you an opportunity to apply basic psychological
principles, and to learn more about your own behaviour. Both your written assessments will be
based on this activity. Assessment 1 will be completed prior to implementation of your behaviour
modification programme – it will include an introduction and background for the study, and a
proposed method section. This would normally be the first half of an experimental report – using
literature to provide the rationale and background for some research (Introduction section) and
clearly describing what is done (Method section). Between assessments you will implement your
programme and collect data using a simple A-B design. In Assessment 2 you will provide the
second half of the experimental report – you will present your final method section, results
(Results section) and then discuss them in the context of (and linking to) existing research and
theory (Discussion section).
Time constraints mean that you need to start planning and working on these assessments as soon
as possible. Our suggestion is to keep your target behaviour simple, define it clearly and collect
data in a structured and organised manner. The goal is to get some insight into how behavioural
principles operate, how they are applied, and thinking critically about the success or otherwise of
your programme.
We stress that your mark for the second assessment will not be based on the degree to which you
managed to change your target behaviour, but on the demonstrated understanding and
application of behavioural principles, and critical evaluation of your programme. With reference to
the
1. Explore and critique main principles and concepts of domains of current psychological
research and practice:
Show that you understand the relevant principles of behavioural psychology
clearly explain and apply them.
Explicitly link the principles to your target behaviour – in terms of its current state,
and how you will go about changing it.
Justify or support your plan using relevant research.
2. Critically reflect on the validity and relevance of psychology to understanding the self,
others, present-day contexts and New Zealand society:
In your introduction establish the link between your behaviour and the behavioural
principles in question – this is key to designing an intervention, and directly
add resses the lea rning outcome
In your discussion especially, discuss the strengths and limitations of a behavioural
approach to understanding and changing your behaviour. You might discuss your