The Effect of Behavior Control Strategies Upon the Disruptive Student : A Case Study

Abstract

The Problem. A fourth-grade student had disrupted class, especially during specials, rather frequently. This case study was designed to determine if positive reinforcement and other techniques would decrease the frequency of the problem. Procedure. Meetings were held with staff. Data was collected on a daily basis for more than nine months. Data including frequency and specification of reward and punishment was analyzed. Follow-up meetings were held. Findings. Social reinforcement and extra privileges based on a reward system were found to be very effective. Activity curtailment and removal to a time-out room were also useful when the previous strategies were not successful. These programs must be very carefully structured.