Effects of Behavior Modification Techniques on Student Behavior and Reading Achievement

Joann Ryan

Date of Graduation

Summer 1977

Degree

Master of Science in Education in Literacy

Department

Reading, Foundations, and Technology

Committee Chair

James Layton

Abstract

Statement of the Problem. The problem of this study was to assess the value of the use of Behavior Modification techniques in reducing interfering behavior and the resultant effect on reading achievement improvement. Purpose. The purpose of this study was first, to assess the value of Behavior Modification techniques used in a case study in order to alter interfering behavior beneficially to the subject, and second, to observe the effect of altered behavior on reading achievement. Procedures. Interfering behavior in a selected subject was classified and tabulated before any Behavior Modifications were employed. Token reinforcement was then introduced and explained to the subject. Together with social praise and encouragement, the token system was used during the reading instruction sessions. Results. The reinforcing procedures used decreased interfering behavior of the subject. When this procedure was withdrawn for a brief time, the behavior reverted to interfering. When the system was reintroduced, in the final phase of the study, a positive gain in behavior and in reading was observed. Therefore, Behavior Modification techniques were judged to be effective in remedying the subject's behavior and subsequent achievement. In reading the subject showed a gain of three months in a six month period.

Subject Categories

Other Education

Copyright

© Joann Ryan

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Dissertation/Thesis

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