PSYB45H3 Lecture : Behavior Modification Chapter 15 Notes.docx
Document Summary
Recall from chapter 5 that we distinguished between natural reinforcers, which happen as a normal part of everyday events, and programmed reinforcers, which are deliberately provided with the goal of increasing specific behaviors. Using indirect assessment methods to identify reinforcers has some limitations. First, like all self-report measurements, they may be less accurate than direct methods might be (northup, 2000). Second, individuals whose verbal abilities are very limited, such as young children and people with developmental disabilities, may be unable to answer the questions even when the items are read to them. And third, people who are extremely depressed may feel that nothing gives them pleasure. A good way to determine what consequences will reinforce a person"s behavior is through direct assessment methods: observing and recording the individual"s reactions toward the stimuli when they occur or are available.
