PSYCH 261 – Behavior Change Proposal

PSYCH 261 – Behavior Change Proposal

Subject: Psychology    / General Psychology
Question
Behavior Change Proposal Paper
If you would like to earn an “A” in this class, you must write and receive a passing grade on a
behavior change proposal. The proposal should describe a behavior change program that you could
implement for yourself (self-management program) or someone else (e.g., friend, family member, pet).
The program should incorporate and specify at least two basic principles of behavior discussed in class
(e.g., reinforcement, punishment, extinction, generalization, discrimination, respondent conditioning).
You may elect to increase/decrease the frequency of an existing behavior, establish a new behavior, or
some combination.
Proposals should be 4-6 pages, typed, and double-spaced. Use the following outline for your
proposal:
Introduction: Describe in a few sentences: (a) the behavior(s) targeted for change, (b) the
person/animal whose behavior you wish to change (i.e., yourself or someone else), and (c) a rationale
for changing the behavior(s) (i.e., why is it important?)
Response Definitions: Provide an operational definition (including situational context if relevant) of
each behavior you wish to change. Describe each behavior in objective terms so that it can be
observed and counted.
Response Measurement: Describe how you will: (a) observe and collect data on each behavior, and
(b) how the data will be summarized (i.e., calculated, graphed, etc.)
Behavior Change Strategies: Describe how you will arrange conditions to change the behavior(s).
Select at least two procedures from the following categories (i.e., the program will consist of at least
two strategies): stimulus control, reinforcement/shaping, punishment, extinction, respondent
acquisition/extinction.
The paper should include a justification using the material from the textbooks and from notes as to
why you are choosing the methods you did as well as a description of what you expect in terms of
results (number of trials, obstacles, etc.). Papers should be submitted to Canvas by the date due;
students will have one opportunity for revision if they do not pass the first time.