Improving Children's Behavior: How To Use The Sticker Chart Method (And Other Reward-Based Systems)

Medically reviewed by Karen Foster, LPC
Updated October 23, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Tiny gold, silver, blue, red and green shiny stars might be a hallmark of many people's childhoods. From learning how to go to the bathroom, to earning an allowance, getting a quick sticker on the chart was—for many children—a comprehensive breakdown of their ability to listen to commands, obey authority and earn rewards as a result. 

Were these systems effective, though, or did they have lasting psychological effects?

Read on to learn more about reward-based behavioral modification, and how your child can benefit from it. 

Reward-based behavior modification

A reward-based behavior modification system is generally defined as any system that might be created to alter a child's behavior with the promise of a reward. Some reward systems can offer small rewards, as is the case with a sticker chart, while other systems can provide larger and more tangible rewards—such as promising money for good grades or promising a teenager a car in response to demonstrating behavior the parent deems appropriate. 

Reward-based modification systems generally operate under the notion that children might abandon an undesirable behavior if they are given a motivation substantial enough to diminish the appeal of poor behavior.

For example: A child might get a sticker for listening in class, or may receive a toy at the end of a doctor's appointment for sitting still during an examination. 

Proponents of reward-based systems have suggested that they can be developmentally appropriate, as many things in life might function on the premise of receiving a reward. When executed correctly and in a healthy way, this parenting technique can be effective for some.

Getty/AnnaStills
With the right techniques, you can improve your child's behavior

Do reward-based systems work?

The answer to this question can be far more complex and convoluted than a simple "yes" or "no." Children can all differ greatly in what motivates and excites them. Using child-specific reward-based systems is what many might find to yield the best result.

Mental and emotional health

An important factor in determining whether or not these systems will work can be a child's mental or emotional health status.

Impacts of reward-based systems on children with developmental or mental health challenges

Children who have experienced behavioral, mood, developmental or cognitive disorders may struggle with the mechanisms involved in a reward system for several reasons. First, some may have difficulty with communication, focus, comprehension, and pattern recognition. These elements can be important to grasp for understanding and participating in personal reward systems. 

Efficacy depending on emotional maturity

Additionally, emotional maturity can also be an important element of the equation to evaluate, as this can dictate the efficacy of the approach. 

If you’re not sure if your child is a strong candidate for this technique, you can always ask their medical care team, psychologist, or other people in the child’s life. Their input can be valuable to you as you determine the best way to raise your child. 

Potential pitfalls

There are some considerations that many parents might evaluate as they determine if reward-based systems are the right choice for their child.

Parents’ love can be perceived as conditional

Some child psychologists have argued that reward-based systems may not be the healthiest option for some children, hypothesizing that it can teach children that their parents' love, affection and attention can be conditional.

Potential for an unstable emotional environment 

This type of reward system can also lead to an unstable emotional environment for children and can result in mental health concerns down the road that may require professional intervention.

Efficacy of the reward system may be inconsistent

The inconsistency of the modality’s efficacy can be another common pitfall for those using this method. What might work one day for a child may not work at all for the next several weeks, possibly resulting in both frustrated parents and children. 

Reward-based systems, then, can require a near-daily re-evaluation and may require parents to constantly come up with bigger, better rewards to keep a child's interest. Such a mindset can encourage a consumerist or materialistic belief system in children, which some parents may wish to avoid.

The reward may drive the child’s behavior

Finally, opponents have argued that these systems might teach children to consider and value their behavior for the reward it will bring alone, rather than learning the value of kind, preferable behavior as a foregone conclusion as they mature. Proponents of this argument may believe that if rewards are removed, children's negative behaviors might return immediately until a new reward is offered—possibly creating a cycle that can perpetuate into adulthood.

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Reward systems to consider

If you’re considering using a reward system in your family management and parenting strategy, you might consider looking into any of the following sub-types below: 

Regional iIntervention Program (RIP)

An example of a state-run reward-based behavior program is the Regional Intervention Program (RIP). This program was generally developed for families living with children experiencing intense behavioral problems, working to offer parents alternative strategies to positively interact with their children.

RIP is thought by many to feature the notion of using affection and attention as reinforcers, generally instructing parents to "turn attention off" when undesirable behavior is engaged. Conversely, they do recommend offering attention and praise when ideal behavior is engaged—possibly to encourage this behavior in the future.

We do want to note: This system does not reward withtangibleobjects but with praise and attention.

The sticker chart method

Sticker charts might be the most encouraged reward-based behavioral program option available. Many child psychologists and childhood developmental specialists generally encourage parents to use sticker charts for all manner of things, including grades, toilet training, and cleaning. 

Sticker charts usually offer stickers for good behavior, which can add up to a larger prize. This system can be implemented at home, in schools, and in other social settings with limited financial or logistical barriers (in most cases).

Effectiveness of reward-based systems

Many have found evidence to support that reward-based behavior modification can be effective for some, as children may work to improve behavior when offered rewards for complying with demands. 

One example of efficacy using this method can be the increase in reading following schools giving out food and treat vouchers as a reward via the nationally implemented BookIt! program. 

Ongoing research has also found details that support the notion that reward-based systems can be especially powerful when paired with the teaching that the student is in control of their destiny, be it learning-oriented, personal development-oriented, or otherwise. When the modality is paired with the teaching of autonomy, many might find a greater intrinsic motivation style developed across youth of all ages.

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With the right techniques, you can improve your child's behavior

How can online therapy help parents guide their children 

Are you experiencing difficulty with your child's behavior? Online therapy can be successful both for children and parents, helping them work through concerns that can create strife at home.

Therapists at BetterHelp can offer support to individuals and families. Considered by many to be both affordable and convenient, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist who can meet with you at a time that works for your schedule—and your sessions can take place in the comfort of your home.

Is online therapy effective?

In a recent meta-analysis including over 60+ studies, researchers found details that suggest that online therapy offers comparable gains to what you’d see in in-person intervention, supporting many in healing from the effects of depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more. This can be especially important for parents who are looking to parent their children well despite their previous experiences, possibly helping them to operate from a healthier, more psychologically aware place during disciplinary moments. 

Takeaway

Many might believe that children should be taught the value of rewards and the value of work itself, so creating a balance between reward-based systems and natural consequences can be a helpful strategy for many as they educate and raise children. 

To encourage reading, for instance, offering a reward (a sticker on a chart, which leads to a greater reward), and allowing the child to choose a book that interests them can use reward-based systems and natural consequences to instill a love of reading in children. 

If you’re looking for extra support, online therapy can help. BetterHelp can connect you with an online therapist in your area of need.

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