Behavioral Modification Essay

4610 Words19 Pages
Thesis Statement: Behavioral modification is used too freely in the U.S. today. I. Introduction II. ADD and ADHD a) Definitions b) Symptoms c) Treatments and medications d) Side effects e) Family effects III. Depression a) Definitions b) Symptoms c) Treatments and medications d) Risk factors e) Suicidal Behavior IV. Behavioral Modification a) Increase use of b) Cost of c) Friend d) Foe V. Conclusion The use of medication for behavior management of special needs children and adults has grown over the years. Some patients swear by it and some hate it. Parents realize how it helps their children with their symptoms, but that it negatively impacts their children’s lives also. It can be stated that under no circumstances is medication alone a sufficient response to challenging behavior. Environmental supports are always necessary. That is not to suggest, however, that medication should be reserved as an intervention of last resort, only to be employed when all other interventions have failed. (Silver 1) Everyone has moments where they do something impulsive, such as blurt out something they did not mean to say, or lose interest in one task and switch to another before the first is complete. Sometimes, people get forgetful and disorganized, especially if they have a lot on their minds or are under a great deal of stress. A child with ADD or ADHD may be unable to sit still or pay attention, pick fights with others, or throws tantrums constantly. It is helpful for parents to keep a written record of such incidents. If the log is appropriately kept, a pattern should soon emerge. When the child runs into occasional behavior problems, the solution may lie on the timing. The log may then prove invaluable. (Silver 1) ADD
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