Three-year-old Lauren refuses to stay in her own bed at night. When her parents put her back in her own bed, she screams and cries unless one of them stays in the room with her. After talking with a behavior therapist, Lauren's parents begin using operant conditioning techniques that involve:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most effective method for changing Lauren's bedtime behavior would be to use operant conditioning techniques that focus on positively reinforcing desirable behaviors (in this case, staying in her own bed) and systematically ignoring undesirable behaviors (crying and screaming). Aversive conditioning and counterconditioning may not be appropriate for a young child and could potentially increase fear and anxiety around bedtime. Identifying irrational beliefs or using relaxation techniques may be helpful for older children or adults, but are not as effective for a three-year-old who is primarily motivated by immediate rewards and consequences.

Three-Year-Old Lauren Refuses to Stay in Her Own Bed at Night