Anyone having ever studied psychology or psychiatry has most likely heard of Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and B. F. Skinner. Originally known as \”Behavior Modification, \” applied behavior analysis Alabama works to transform negative behaviors into positive ones. There are a number of free online classes available to those wishing to learn more about this analysis or generalized psychology. Both the edX and Coursera organizational websites offer these courses.
There are two aspects to this theory, one being scientific which existed in the earlier practice developed by Dr. Skinner. The other, being the relationship between negative behavioral issues and the environment. If an animal or individual is acting out because of environmental factors, the resolution is often quite simple compared to those of a scientific nature.
By eliminating environmental factors as a cause, individuals can then begin researching biological factors, and others which could be responsible. In some cases, people may need to visit a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the cause of negative behavioral issues. After which, individuals can then work to bridge a communication gap as part of the process. By exploring environmental concerns, individuals can easier determine the cause of specific or ongoing issues.
Use of this theory can also be applied to animals. The principles related to this type of analysis are negative reinforcement for negative behavior and positive reinforcement for positive behavior. Animal trainers, pet owners and pet sitters most likely already use these principles without realization. For example, pet owners often give dogs treats when behaving and responding to request. By doing so, this conditions the dog to want to repeat the same behavior. Whereas, if a dog is punished for a negative behavioral issues over time, the animal often learns it is not a desired response.
Most analysts prefer the use of positive reinforcement for increasing desirable behavior. While the emphasis on negative behavior be negative punishment. When using these methods, the animal receiving negative punishment must also receive positive reinforcement when showing improvement.
When establishing alternatives for problematic issues, reinforcements need be provided on an ongoing basis. For example, when training an animal, it is imperative to always reward positive change. Whereas, it is imperative to also punish negative behavioral issues. Otherwise, it can be difficult for an animal to distinguish between a desired or problematic response. Whether animal or human, most often positive and negative reinforcements will be required over time.
When having issues with training a dog or other animal, it is often necessary to use condition based training. Condition based training requires communication between the animal trainer, pet sitter or owner and the animal. A good example is when a dog obeys a command and receives a dog biscuit or other treat. Unless this occurs on a regular basis, the dog may very well forget and have to relearn the command. If given treats when displaying negative behavioral issues, then the animal may repeat the behavior thinking more treats will be provided.
The primary aspects of ABA are desensitization, generalization, discrimination and stimulus control. For example, the clicker used for the dog would be related to stimulus control. As such, these methodological elements can be used to help offset and transform negative behavior in animals and people. These elements, along with identifying the accurate cause can go along way in changing socially significant behavioral issues.
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