Home-Based Reinforcement of School Behavior: A Review and Analysis

Abstract

Home-based reinforcement of school behavior is proving to be an efficient method for motivating behavioral change. It has been used successfully with children in group homes, with children in special classes, and with entire mainstream and special classrooms. Twenty-four studies are reviewed with particular attention given to types of consequences employed and methods of gaining parental involvement. Consumable reinforcers, earned privileges, verbal praise, and response costs were all effectively administered by parents who were informed of their children’s performance via daily or weekly school notes. Parents were instructed in their role in several ways, including group and individual conferences as well as simple letters sent home. A wide range of behaviors and academic problems were remedied rapidly and with a modicum of response costs to counselors, teachers, and parents. Implications for further research are considered.