Time-Out
A time-out is period of time when all reinforcement is taken away from the youth after they have shown negative behavior. Therapists work with caregivers to effectively administer time-out for behaviors which need to be extinguished immediately. Caregivers will role-play and identify barriers to using the technique with therapist before using at home.
Video: Do you know how to properly use time out? It is a lot trickier than it seems. Dr. Gregory Fabiano, associate professor of counseling, school and educational psychology at the University at Buffalo, breaks down this technique and walks parents through how to use it.
What should my therapist be doing?
Explaining how removing a child from an enjoyable activity will act as a form of mild punishment
Discussing how time out will discourage a child from engaging in negative behaviors in the future
Teaching you how to effectively use time-outs
What should I be doing?
Consistently using time out at home
Reminding yourself that time out will not work immediately, but will provide long-term benefits for you and the child
How will I know if it is working?
Unwanted behaviors occur less often
Your child is able to improve their negative behaviors after receiving a warning
