Recently, when working with a family with teenagers we discussed behavioral contracts. They asked if we had this information on the blog. I decided that this was a good idea. So here goes. I have posted the information I use for families including a template for the contract. Remember a contract only works if you enforce the contract each time there is a violation. If you are using a contract do not remind you teen or yell about misbehavior. Simply remind them they have chosen to accept the consequence. Do not have more that five rules on a contract. Good luck Sherri
BEHAVIORAL CONTRACTS FOR TEEN
- Denotes expected behaviors, rules and privileges
- An agreement between the parents and the teenager
- It manages accountability for both the parents and the teen
- Guides the teen in developing appropriate behaviors
- Helps parents maintain order
- Provides structure for the teen
- Aids parents in consistency
- Be very specific
TO DEVELOP A BEHAVIORAL CONTRACT
- Make a list of the targeted or problematic behaviors
- Describe when and how the behaviors occur
- List your expectations for change
- Develop appropriate consequences
- Create logical rewards or privileges
(4 and 5 can be done by the teen)
Example: Grades falling
Homework being completed at school, two classes have dropped a letter grade, an increase in socializing and computer time in the evening.
CONTRACT WORKSHEET
Problem behavior grades falling
Related behaviors homework done at school
Socializing and computer time in the evening
Expectations grades will show an increase at next grading period
Plan designated study time for 1 hour in the evening before social
time may begin
Consequences no social time until the hour is completed
Privileges social time when the hour is done
Additional thoughts:
Whether or not a teen will sign I find optional. I will not get into a power struggle over it and simply say, “no problem” you don’t have to sign it but I will enforce it.
Parents must be consistent. Do not remind (even subtly) about an element on the contract. Give the consequence or privilege each time.
When the contract is in place no other action is needed. Don’t give additional consequences. Resist the urge to lecture. Please don’t yell.
Contracts should be discussed with the teen as they are being developed.
At any time a contract can be renegotiated. If it is not effective renegotiate. If the behavior is consistent this contract is no longer needed.
When parents tell me a contract is not working I know a couple of things. The consequences may not be correct for this child/behavior. It may not be enforced consistently.
Even if the contract is working they still need a great deal of positive affirmation.
Here is also a contract form to use to create your own contract.
CONTRACT WORKSHEET
Problem behavior: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Related behaviors: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Expectations: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Plan:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Consequences:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Privileges:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________