Studies Say 'Good Behavior Game' Is Effective

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - I remember when the teacher said if the class behaved well, we would have a treat Friday afternoon. No one then called it behavior modification. Today, behavior management is an important part of teacher training.

Twenty-two studies have been analyzed on results using an approach known as the Good Behavior Game. Education Week explains how it works and the outcomes.

The class is divided into two teams of even size and teams get debits for breaking classroom rules and credits for behaving well. At the end of the week, the team with the best behavior or fewest infractions gets a reward such as a chance to line up first for lunch or candy - allowing teachers to recognize appropriate behavior, teach classroom rules, praise kids and reinforce good behavior.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin found the game equally effective for staying on task and controlling aggression in elementary and secondary schools, especially when kids choose rewards.