The Use of Punishment

According to applied behavioral analysts we are influenced by the consequences of our behavior. If a behavior is followed by negative, aversive, or unpleasant consequences, we are less likely to repeat it. This is called punishment. Should parents use punishment? That´s a personal choice, however, it is important to recognize that punishment is applied only if the behavior in question stops or occurs less frequently. All too often we apply what we believe is punishment and the given behavior doesn´t change or even increases in frequency. By definition, if the behavior doesn´t stop, punishment has not been applied.