Related Experiment Videos
The underlife of behavior modification
David R Buckholdt1, Jaber F Gubrium1
1Department of Sociology.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Behavior modification in residential treatment centers for children involves staff practices influencing client data. This highlights the need to consider context and staff influence in evaluating treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Residential treatment centers utilize behavior modification techniques for emotionally disturbed children.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions relies on collected behavioral data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe behavior modification practices in a residential treatment center.
- To examine the influence of staff context and practices on client behavior data.
Main Methods:
- 18-month observational study within a residential treatment center.
- Analysis of how staff count, report, and evaluate client behavior data.
- Qualitative assessment of contextual factors in data collection.
Main Results:
- Client behavior data are influenced by tacit staff practices and contextual factors.
- Official data presented as solely reflecting client behavior may be skewed.
- Staff interactions and evaluation meetings shape the reported outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral data in such settings are a product of both client actions and staff interpretation.
- A critical review of data collection and reporting in residential treatment is warranted.
- Understanding staff influence is crucial for accurate assessment of treatment efficacy.