Behavior Specific Praise
Behavior Specific Praise is a positive
statement intended to reinforce the desired behavior of an individual that acknowledges the individual by name (or in a manner in which he/she knows who is being praised), specifically describes/identifies the individual’s behavior, and incorporates a term of praise.
Examples of BSP:
- "Jon, nice work - you cleaned up your area!"
- "You set the table, Lynn - way to go."
- "Great job waiting your turn." (while standing near and looking at the individual)
- "Good job brushing your teeth, Alex."
Non-Examples of BSP:
- "Jon, your area looks nice."
- "Thanks for setting the table, Lynn."
- "Good job."
- "Great job not being disruptive."
Definition of Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is when an event (usually a pleasant one) occurs immediately following a behavior and as a result, the behavior occurs more often in the future.
Reasons for Using Positive Reinforcement with Individuals
with IDD
- To strengthen an existing skill or behavior
- To teach a new skill or behavior
Guidelines for Using Positive Reinforcement
- Be consistent
- Be contingent
- Be immediate
Two Major Types of Reinforcers
- Primary reinforcers
- Secondary reinforcers
Problems in Using Primary Reinforcers
Two-Fold Process of "Conditioning" Praise
- Deliver praise
- Follow immediately with food or other primary reinforcer
Steps for Delivering Behavior Specific Praise
- Identify the specific behavior to praise.
- Decide if the behavior qualifies for praise.
- If so, acknowledge the individual by name (or in a manner in which he/she knows who is being praised).
- Incorporate a term of praise*.
- Describe the behavior.
Note: Steps 3, 4 and 5 can be performed in any order.
*Terms of Praise (Step 4)
Examples:
- Good job
- Great job
- That’s awesome
- Way to go
- Well done
- Fantastic work
- Outstanding effort
- You’re super
- Wow
- That’s the way!
- You did it!
- Good, amazing, excellent, wonderful, nice, ...
