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TRUE or FALSE: Timeout should always be implemented with differential reinforcement for appropriate behavior.

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Final answer:

Timeout is a form of negative punishment used to decrease undesirable behavior and should be used with differential reinforcement to also promote appropriate behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement is TRUE: Timeout should always be implemented with differential reinforcement for appropriate behavior. Timeout operates on the principle of negative punishment, which involves removing a child from a desirable activity to decrease unwanted behavior. The use of differential reinforcement involves supplementing timeout with positive reinforcement for appropriate behaviors. By only using timeout, you may effectively reduce the unwanted behavior; however, without simultaneously reinforcing the desired behavior, the child might not learn what behavior is expected.

Consider the example provided: When Sophia throws blocks at her brother and is subsequently removed from playing after repeating the behavior, the timeout serves as a negative punishment. If upon returning, she is then praised or rewarded when she plays nicely and does not throw blocks, this reinforcement promotes the appropriate behavior going forward.

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