1 of 30

Write now Article Tools

In discussing the use of rewards, two very important aspects need to be considered - what type of rewards are being offered and the timing of these rewards in reference to the behaviour.

Any behavioural scientist will tell you that by reinforcing the desired outcome the frequency of occurrence will increase. This is true with both people and animals, and generally speaking, so is the reverse - negative reinforcement will often decrease undesirable behaviours - unless, of course, if there is no alternative reinforcement available. In other words, rewards will increase good behaviour and punishment will decrease bad behaviour except for when any attention is better than none.

So, the question becomes what types of rewards are being used and are they being used as a bribe - before the behaviour - or as a reward - after the behaviour - and the frequency. A reward does not have to be material like a sweet or a toy. A reward can be a hug, a smile or verbal praise. It can be a special outing to the park. All of these things are only beneficial to your child and are a totally appropriate way to let your child know that what they have done is great - and what's wrong with that? How else will they know what you expect from them unless you reward them?

True, you don't want to have to reward every single thing that they do but no one expects you to do so. "More often than not" is just as effective. Conversely, punishment can regulate undesirable behaviour. This does not mean that you should be hitting your child. Punishment can range from a frown to time out to removal of treats. Again, ideally, these should occur as a consequence of behaviour rather than as a threat against possible behaviour.

In this context, I have no problem with the use of rewards and indeed believe that it is our responsibility as parents to be generous in their use.

Learn more about this author, Alison Harvey.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Should parents use rewards to motivate their child's behavior??
We want to hear your view. Write now!