B.F. Skinner · 1904–1990
Behaviorism (used with care)
Consequences shape behavior. Useful for building habits — dangerous if it becomes the whole theory of a child.
Why it matters when you teach
Sticker charts can build a toothbrushing habit. They cannot build a conscience. Use reinforcement for skills; use relationship and meaning for character. Never pay a child for kindness as if it were a trick.
Core ideas
Positive reinforcement
Add something they value after a behavior — be specific and immediate.
Extinction & punishment costs
Ignoring and punishing have side effects: anxiety, sneakiness, a relationship bill.
In the room
- Reinforce the first step of a hard skill, not only the masterpiece.
- Catch them doing the thing you want. Attention is a reinforcer either way.
- Do not use food as the only wage. Competence and connection last longer.
Try this
- One behavior, one week, specific praise within 3 seconds. Track whether the environment, not your mood, is doing the teaching.
Hold it lightly
- Ignores inner life. Children are not pigeons. Combine with attachment, emotion, and meaning or you get a trained seal.