Problematic behavior can be viewed as the result of the interaction between parents and children as guided by operating assumptions. Preliminary research suggests that enduring and generalized adaptive changes in problematic behavior are engendered when behavior modification techniques like praise are augmented with cognitive techniques like self talk. The changes may be more enduring and generalized when these techniques are used not only with children but also with and by parents. However, research is needed to validate this working hypothesis as well as to determine the most effective behaviors and cognitions of parents necessary to bring about and maintain change. Until this research has been validated, clinicians may utilize these techniques both with and by parents and with children on the bases of face validity and of extending logically the findings in the areas of behavior modification and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
