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behavior modification

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noun Psychology.

the direct changing of unwanted behavior by means of biofeedback or conditioning.

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RELATED WORDS

reinforcement, therapy, conditioning, counseling

Nearby words

  1. behar,
  2. behave,
  3. behavior,
  4. behavior disorder,
  5. behavior medicine,
  6. behavior pattern,
  7. behavior therapy,
  8. behavioral,
  9. behavioral genetics,
  10. behavioral immunogen

Origin of behavior modification

First recorded in 1970–75
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Medicine definitions for behavior modification

behavior modification

n.

The use of basic learning techniques, such as conditioning, biofeedback, reinforcement, or aversion therapy, to teach simple skills or alter undesirable behavior.
behavior therapy
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for behavior modification

behavior modification

The alteration of human behavior using basic learning techniques such as biofeedback and positive or negative reinforcement (as in rewards and punishments).
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Culture definitions for behavior modification

behavior modification

The changing of a person's reactions to certain situations or stimuli. Behavior therapy, a form of psychotherapy advocated in behaviorism, uses a variety of methods, such as assertiveness training, conditioned response, and hypnosis, to change unsatisfactory or deviant patterns of behavior.

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.