Skinner argued that some children and adults need to have their behaviour modified to fit into society and lead happier, more fulfilled lives. With children, it’s usually a matter of changing the parents’ behaviour as much as the child’s. The Psychologist typically begins by helping the parents decide specifically what types of behaviour are desirable (Stage 1) and what are not (Stage 2). The key words are consistency – always reinforcing particular behaviour in the same way – and firmness – sticking to the programme.
