Open Access

ARTICLE

The Kazdin Method for Developing and Changing Behavior of Children and Adolescents

Alan E. Kazdin^*

Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, 06517, USA

* Corresponding Author: Alan E. Kazdin. Email:

International Journal of Mental Health Promotion 2021, 23(4), 429-442. https://doi.org/10.32604/IJMHP.2021.019135

Received 05 September 2021; Accepted 18 September 2021; Issue published 28 October 2021

Abstract

The Kazdin Method™ is a version of parent management training in which parents are trained to alter the behaviors of their children. The method draws on the principles and techniques of applied behavior analysis. The techniques focus on antecedents (what comes before the behavior), behavior (crafting the precise behaviors one wishes to develop), and consequences (usually praise to increase the likelihood that the desired behaviors will be performed again). The key focus is repeated practice in changing parent and child behaviors. The article traces the evolution of my use of parent training to treat severe aggressive and antisocial behavior among clinically referred samples and also to help parents with the routine challenges of child rearing. Research findings supporting the effectiveness of the techniques are highlighted. In addition, the article discusses issues and myths that may be of concern with the approach such as the exclusive focus on behavior, the extent to which the effects endure, and the use of consequences to change behavior. Resources are provide for parents and professionals for implementing the techniques and as well as for addressing topics of interest to parents in child and adolescent development.

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Keywords

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