Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

Use of a Video Scoring Anchor for Rapid Serial Assessment of Social Communication in Toddlers
Published on: March 14, 2018
Recognition for positive behavior as a critical youth development construct: conceptual bases and implications on
Ben M F Law1, Andrew M H Siu, Daniel T L Shek
1Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong. blaw@hku.hk
Abstract:
Recognition for positive behavior is an appropriate response of the social environment to elicit desirable external behavior among the youth. Such positive responses, rendered from various social systems, include tangible and intangible reinforcements. The following theories are used to explain the importance of recognizing positive behavior: operational conditioning, observational learning, self-determination, and humanistic perspective. In the current work, culturally and socially desirable behaviors are discussed in detail with reference to Chinese adolescents. Positive behavior recognition is especially important to adolescent development because it promotes identity formation as well as cultivates moral reasoning and social perspective thinking from various social systems. The significance of recognizing positive behavior is illustrated through the support, tutorage, invitation, and subsidy provided by Hong Kong's social systems in recognition of adolescent volunteerism. The practical implications of positive behavior recognition on youth development programs are also discussed in this work.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Sources of Self-Esteem II: Performance Feedback
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth. This guiding role...

