Using Conditioning Techniques to Control the Behaviour of Children

Overview

Conditioning techniques refer to behavioural methods used to learn new actions or responses, which can be useful in shaping or changing a child’s behaviour.
These techniques primarily include operant conditioning and classical conditioning.
There are ongoing debates about the ethical implications and effectiveness of such techniques, which need to be considered carefully.

Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning, developed by B.F. Skinner, is a learning method in which behaviours are shaped and maintained by the consequences that follow.
This method entails the use of reinforcements (rewards) to increase desired behaviour, or punishments to decrease undesired behaviour.
The targeted behaviour can either be ‘positive’ (adding something) or ‘negative’ (removing something). This leads to four basic strategies: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment.
Critics argue that this approach may foster dependence on rewards or fear of punishment, potentially obstructing intrinsic motivation and spontaneity.

Classical Conditioning

Classical conditioning, introduced by Ivan Pavlov, is a learning process where two stimuli are repeatedly paired to produce a new learned response in a person or animal.
In a parenting context, the constant pairing of a particular behaviour with a specific event can lead to the behaviour becoming a conditioned response. For instance, if a child comes to associate tidying up (stimulus) with story time (response), they may be more inclined to tidy their room.
Critics suggest this method may oversimplify the complexity of human behaviour and raises ethical concerns about manipulating children’s responses.

Ethics and Impact

The use of conditioning techniques raises ethical issues, especially concerning children’s autonomy and the risk of manipulation or coercion.
Proponents argue that these techniques are beneficial as they provide a structured environment and foster the development of socially approved behaviours.
It’s also crucial to consider the potential long-term effects. Depending on how it’s used, conditioning can either strengthen a child’s adaptation skills or lead to emotional issues in the long run.

Alternatives to Conditioning

Alternatives to conditioning include methods focused on developmental psychology which concern themselves with meeting a child’s needs at each stage of growth to foster healthy development.
There are also more child-centred approaches, such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia methods, which emphasize self-directed learning and respect for a child’s natural psychological development.

As with any learning approach, it’s essential to tailor techniques to individual children, taking into account their unique personality and developmental needs.