The power of consequences

Many students, though, are lured away from their studies by more immediate and certain consequences for distracting behaviors. As a result, the principles of behavioral science discussed here for safety have been applied successfully to keep students on track. How By making classroom activities more rewarding (Sulzer-Azaroff and Mayer, 1972,1986,1991). 

Do any students get soon, certain, and positive consequences for their school-based behaviors Who gets the letter sweaters, awards banquets, newspaper recognition, and crowds of people cheering for their extra effort Right—the athletes. 

If my daughter, Karly, spent half the time working on academic-related tasks, even reading for pleasure, as she does on sports, I would have no worry about her future, but what should I expect She has been playing baseball and basketball since the fourth grade. 

What soon, certain, and valued consequences can keep Karly focused on improving her academic performance Letters on a report card every six weeks cannot compete with the immediate ongoing rewards from her athletic performance. Academic activities are boring, and sports activities are fun. Homework is work to be avoided, if possible. Sports conditioning is work also, but necessary to achieve those rewards of successful athletic performance. Actually, the soon, certain, and positive consequences available for any behavior can determine whether it is boring or fun. 

Peer influence. Obviously, consequences from peers are powerful motivators. We work to achieve peer recognition or approval, and to avoid peer criticism or disapproval. Think about this. Do students receive peer support when they demonstrate extra effort in the classroom In Karly s high school, students who ask questions and show special interest are often called nerds. In college, I was in the fraternity with most of the school s sports heroes and, in order to fit in with the group, I felt peer pressure to conceal my high grades. 

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Figure 11.2 reveals the power of consequences in school, the place where we heard most of the rules listed in Figure 11.1. Many students have difficulty staying focused on their studies. Everyone tells them to stick with the program, put up with uninteresting teachers, and do exactly as told. Why Because if the student is diligent and patient, the hard work eventually pays off.

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