05 | How to Use Shaping to Develop Desired Behaviors in Your Children – with Dr. Alan Kazdin

The video provides a clear and accessible introduction to the behavioral technique of shaping, grounded in the principles of operant conditioning. Dr. Kazdin, a renowned clinical psychologist, presents the material with authority and practical wisdom. The explanation of the ABC model is concise and sets a solid foundation for understanding how shaping fits into broader behavior modification strategies. The five key ingredients of shaping are logically presented and easy to follow, and the examples given (e.g., clearing dishes, doing homework) are relatable for parents. The emphasis on using enthusiastic praise and starting with small steps is well-supported by behavioral research, though the video does not cite specific studies. The discussion of why ‘knowing’ does not lead to ‘doing’ is insightful and helps parents understand common frustrations. The cautionary notes about setting the bar too high and ‘slippery slope thinking’ are valuable and practical. However, the video is relatively brief (13 minutes) and may not delve deeply into nuances or potential limitations of shaping. The production quality is professional, and the content is well-structured. The title accurately reflects the content. Overall, this is a reliable and useful resource for parents seeking evidence-based strategies to encourage positive behaviors in their children.

The title accurately reflects the content, which focuses on using shaping to develop desired behaviors in children, presented by Dr. Alan Kazdin.

8/10

The content is based on established behavioral psychology principles, presented by a recognized expert (Dr. Alan Kazdin, Yale professor). The explanations are clear, practical, and grounded in the ABC model. The video is part of a structured course, and the description provides links to the course on Yale Online and Coursera, adding credibility. However, no specific research studies are cited within the video, and the information is presented in a simplified, tutorial format.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction to the ABC model and the focus on behavior (B).
• 01:00Definition of shaping and example with homework.
• 02:00Examples of shaping in everyday life: toddler talking and walking.
• 03:00Example of shaping to get child to clear dishes.
• 04:00Using shaping to improve listening and compliance.
• 05:00Key ingredients of shaping: specify behavior, small step, consequence, praise, increase requirement.
• 06:00Practice exercise: applying the five ingredients to a goal.
• 07:00Discussion on why knowing is not doing, and normalizing this in children and adults.
• 08:00What to do if the child does not do the first step: make steps smaller, provide help.
• 09:00Cautionary notes: setting the bar too high and slippery slope thinking.

• Everyday Parenting: The ABCs of Child Rearing (Yale Online) — Course page for the full course this video is part of.
• Everyday Parenting (Coursera) — Coursera version of the course.
• Everyday Parenting YouTube Playlist — Playlist containing all videos of the course.

• Everyday Parenting: The ABCs of Child Rearing (Yale Online) — The course page confirms the content and approach.