Behavior Modification In Early Childhood Education

2 Pages 509 Words

Teachers approach classroom conflicts in many different ways. The various approaches they take is reflective of their own experiences and training. One teacher might immediately separate two children who began to struggle over a toy, while another teacher may allow the children time to resolve their conflict before intervening. Each teacher will not allow one child to intentionally physically hurt the other child.
During the twentieth century early childhood educators created and refined an approach to discipline that responded to children in a developmentally appropriate way. They used observation and knowledge of each individual child, the situation and child development to guide behavior. This approach is known as developmental discipline. (Flicker & Hoffman 2002)
Early in this century, educators felt that corporal punishment was an appropriate method of disciplining children. These ideas have been largely debunked. Beginning in the 1980’s child development specialists has sought other methods of modifying undesirable behavior. (Flicker & Hoffman 2002) These experts advocate positive methods of modifying these behaviors. Discussion, explanation, limit setting and enforcement of consequences are the preferred methods rather than by using intimidation or physical force. (Brewer 2004)
Some believe that today’s behavioral problems are a direct result of changes in the American family structure. (Flicker & Hoffman 2002) One in every two children lives in a single-parent family at some point in their life. Over five million children live in families where the head of the household is someone other than their parent. (Flicker & Hoffman 2002) These situations are stressors that can tend to limit the discipline of the children.
Children desire a clearly defined set of limits. All children want structure that provides them with a safe and secure environment. (Flicker & Hoffman 2002) Developmental discipline is design...