Behavior Modification Project Part Three
Over the semester, I identified a behavior I wanted to change, implemented and followed a treatment plan to stop biting my nails and engaging in nail biting behavior (NBB). I used various techniques to stop the aversive behavior including, using nail polish designated for nail biters, using a rubber band as positive punishment, and a behavior monitoring system to keep track of all undesired behaviors. I also attempted to change the environment that caused me to engage in NBB. Along this journey, I learned more about myself and adapted some new behaviors. My goal was to have more attractive finger nails. Although I did not reach my goal this semester I will implement a similar plan over the summer break.
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I think the rubber band method worked more because I received an immediate reinforcement in oppose to the monitoring behavior that may or may not be reinforced at the end of each week. I bite my nails in the presence of stressful situations or boredom and I would not bite my nails in front of certain people of during individual or group meetings, but I would engage in nail peeling behavior. Forgetting is also considered part of stimulus control stimulus control. At times, I forgot about my behavior modification project but when I engaged in NBB I would stop those …show more content…
At the beginning of the semester I thought nail biting was just a bad habit. After paying more attention to the behavior and things that trigger the behavior I knew it was more than a bad habit but a coping mechanism. I would bite my nails when I was in stressful situation, in times of nervousness and unconsciously when I was bored. I even noticed that I would bite my nails so low that it would hurt. After implementing and following a plan, and eventually failing I wanted to do more than stop biting my nails, I wanted to find a way to deal with stress, nervousness and boredom in a healthier way.
I am very disappointed that I did not achieve better results. I really did look forward to having nice long and painted nails for over the summer. My first pedicure of the sandal wearing season seemed incomplete because my nails were not long enough to get properly done. I still struggle with insecurities about the appearance of my finger nails. I feel like if I would have tried harder I would have shown better