2. Using stimulus control to your advantage You can use stimulus control to help you deal with difficult situations Sports Performances Speeches When trying to modify existing behavior ask yourself – can I use existing stimulus control to help me?
3. Rules Rule following behavior is usually well developed as you grow older Allows you to access more SR and avoid SP Clear rules for the consequences are always best But unclear ones work as well (threats or commands) Contingency shaped vs. rule governed behavior Contingency shaped behavior develops by specific contact with a contingency Rule governed develops by direct contact with a contingency for following rules and will eventually lead to contingencies. Allow us to bridge the gaps in delayed reinforcement situations
4. More on rules Very helpful when rapid changes are needed Contingency shaped can and do take time. Very helpful when consequences are delayed or intermittent Helpful when behavior will lead to sever punishment Make rules as specific as possible in terms of behavior, circumstances and consequences You do not want confusion – as it will lead to no SR and also could decrease rule following behavior Make the reinforcement as immediate as possible (deadlines)
5. Goals Use goals as motivational factors Used in similar situations as rules and do similar things (bridge gaps to SR) Although they are a form of rules they are used usually when trying to achieve a longer term objective Self talk (rule for now) – vs practice (goal for later) Be specific – in terms of behavior, consequences, settings Use mastery criteria Make them public rather than private (implies social consequences) Use deadlines Give feedback (graphing!) Make a public committment
