Applications of self-control procedures by children: a review

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Children's capacity for self-regulation is crucial for behavioral development.
• Understanding self-control procedures in children is essential for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate self-control procedures used by children to modify their own behavior.
• To assess the effectiveness, maintenance, and comparative value of these self-management techniques.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on self-control procedures in children.
• Analysis of self-instruction, self-determined criteria, self-assessment, and self-reinforcement.
• Evaluation of self-punishment, comprehensive programs, and novel techniques like distraction and restatement of contingencies.

Main Results:

• Self-control procedures demonstrate basic effectiveness in children's behavior modification.
• These methods were compared to externally imposed interventions, showing comparable or augmental value.
• Maintenance of behavioral changes achieved through self-control was assessed.

Conclusions:

• Self-control procedures are viable tools for children's self-management.
• Further research is needed to address identified problems and optimize these interventions.