When managing patient behavior, what is the recommended practice?

Reinforcing positive behaviors is considered a foundational technique in managing patient behavior, particularly within the fields of speech-language pathology and behavioral therapy. By focusing on positive reinforcement, practitioners encourage desired behaviors, making it more likely that these behaviors will be repeated in the future.

Positive reinforcement can take many forms, such as verbal praise, tangible rewards, or increased opportunities for activities that the patient enjoys. This approach creates a supportive and constructive environment that fosters motivation and engagement, which is critical for successful therapy outcomes.

In contrast, focusing on negative behaviors or employing punitive measures can lead to increased anxiety, resistance, and a breakdown in the therapeutic relationship. Ignoring all behaviors is not effective either, as it overlooks the opportunity to reward and promote positive changes. Therefore, reinforcing positive behaviors is aligned with best practices in patient management and therapeutic settings.