An evaluation of interdependent and independent group contingencies during the good behavior game

Group contingencies describe interventions in which a reward is delivered to a group of individuals based on meeting a predetermined target level of performance. Group contingencies have repeatedly been found to be effective in modifying student behavior. Not only are group contingences effective, but they also have several logistical advantages over individual contingencies. Namely, the delivery of a common consequence to a group of individuals increases efficiency, the use of peers as change agents increases positive peer pressure for appropriate behavior, group contingencies are flexible, and they allow access to a variety of reinforcers. Three different types of group contingencies are described. Finally, specific examples of group contingencies are provided. This includes the Good Behavior Game, Positive Peer Reporting, and Mystery Motivator.

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Independent and Dependent Group Contingencies

Peers as Change Agents ◽

10.1093/med-psych/9780190068714.003.0022 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 263-274

Author(s):

Tom Cariveau

Keyword(s):

Small Group ◽

Effective Intervention ◽

Entire Group ◽

Individual Student ◽

Group Contingency ◽

Independent Group ◽

Group Contingencies ◽

Educational Settings

Group contingencies include the arrangement of a common consequence for responding by members of a group. Independent group contingencies involve a common consequence being delivered to an individual student based on her performance. Dependent group contingencies involve the consequence being delivered to the entire group based on the performance of an individual or small group of students. Numerous variables may be altered in a group contingency and arranging an effective intervention requires planful incorporation of each. This chapter reviews the components of independent and dependent group contingencies and considerations when designing and implementing group contingencies in educational settings.

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Interdependent Group Contingencies

Peers as Change Agents ◽

10.1093/med-psych/9780190068714.003.0021 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 249-262

Author(s):

Daniel M. Maggin ◽

Christerallyn A. J. Brown ◽

Skip Kumm

Keyword(s):

Peer Influence ◽

Good Behavior Game ◽

Group Contingencies ◽

Peer Reporting ◽

Target Behavior ◽

Interdependent Group Contingencies ◽

Mystery Motivators ◽

Classroom Training ◽

Behavioral Criterion ◽

Group Members

Interdependent group contingencies involve a common consequence based on the behavior of all members of the group, as groups may have to meet a behavioral criterion together or all group members must meet a criterion to access a consequence. Interventions such as the Good Behavior Game, Peer Reporting Interventions, and mystery motivators are examples of interdependent group contingencies that utilize peer influence to improve appropriate behaviors in classrooms. This chapter discusses implementation issues with group contingencies, including target behavior selection, classroom training, addressing group sabotage, and managing contingencies. This chapter also discusses considerations of diversity and equity within interdependent group contingencies.

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