Behavior modification is the process of changing patterns of human behavior over the long term

using various motivational techniques, mainly consequences (negative reinforcement) and

rewards (positive reinforcement). The ultimate goal is to swap objectionable, problematic, or
disagreeable behaviors with more positive, desirable behaviors. Behavior modification works
with just about everyone and has many potential applications, from improving a child's behavior
to motivating employees to work more efficiently. Behavior modification is also often used to
treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, irrational fears, drug
and alcohol addiction issues, generalized anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.
It's easy to make a change. The hard part comes in making the change stick. Anyone can say
they're going to quit smoking and then ignore one or two cravings, or commit to an exercise
regimen and then hit the gym twice in a week. The challenge is to stick with the new habit,
which is not so easy. This is where behavior modification comes in. Behavior modification says
that we can change the way we act, or react, by learning and by attaching consequences to our
actions. You can't force someone to change their behavior. You can, however, motivate them to
change their behavior by changing the environment and offering incentives.
The psychologist B.F. Skinner, known for his research on operant conditioning (the precursor to
behavior modification), postulated that if the consequences of an action are negative, there is
good chance the action or behavior will not be repeated, and if the consequences are positive,
chances are better that action or behavior will be repeated. He referred to this concept as "the
principle of reinforcement." Put simply, Skinner's behavior modification model is a way to
change habits by
following actions up with positive or negative consequences to either break bad habits or
reinforce good habits to continue. You can try to develop and imp ment a behavior modification
plan on your own, or you can find a counselor or therapist who specializes in behavior
modification therapy.