behavior modification

American  

noun

Psychology.

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

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behavior modification Scientific  

1. The alteration of human behavior using basic learning techniques such as biofeedback and positive or negative reinforcement (as in rewards and punishments).

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behavior modification Cultural  

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of behavior modification

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

"Understanding precisely how circadian disruption promotes disease progression could lead to behavior modification to reduce cancer risk."

From Science Daily • May 28, 2024

A state education official in 2006 called it, “principally a behavior modification center.”

From Seattle Times • Apr. 3, 2024

Skinner, who suggested four categories for behavior modification: positive reinforcement, positive punishment, negative reinforcement, and negative punishment.

From Salon • Sep. 25, 2022

“We start very slowly with behavior modification so that we can ease them into life as pet dogs,” Collins explained.

From Washington Times • Feb. 3, 2020

Over a short period of time, things that inmates used for years to abate stress and depression were confiscated, visitation privileges were decreased and discouraged, and a different method of behavior modification was implemented.

From New York Times • Apr. 29, 2019