Overcorrection

Description of the Strategy

Overcorrection is an empirically derived method of punishment. Briefly, after an undesired behavior occurs, the perpetrator is instructed to “correct” the undesired behavior (i.e., restitution). The perpetrator is then directed to engage in an effortful response that more than corrects the effects of the inappropriate behavior (i.e., restoration of the immediate environment to an improved condition). Instructions to perform desired behaviors must occur immediately contingent upon occurrence of the undesired behavior. For instance, if a mentally retarded adult threw a bowl of cereal on the floor, the staff instructor would first instruct this individual to assist in cleaning the cereal from the floor (restitution). The person would then be required to assist in mopping the kitchen floor or scrubbing ...