Behavior Modification

Definition

Behavior modification is a therapeutic approach designed to change a particular undesirable negative behavior by using a system of rewards and consequences.

Related terms

Operant Conditioning:

This is a type of learning where behavior is controlled by consequences. Key concepts in operant conditioning are positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment.

Reinforcement:

It's an outcome that strengthens the probability of a response or behavior. For example, giving your dog a treat for sitting down reinforces that behavior.

Extinction:

In psychology terms, extinction refers to the gradual weakening of a conditioned response that results in the behavior decreasing or disappearing. For instance, if you stop giving your dog treats for sitting down, eventually he may stop doing this action altogether.