According to a behavior plan, how might a school address a child who seeks attention?

• A. By channeling attention into a positive behavior, such as inviting the child to perform in a talent show
• B. By ignoring the child completely
• C. By giving the child more homework
• D. By removing the child from class for the day

Answer: (A)

When a child is seeking attention, the best approach is to channel that need into a positive, constructive behavior. A behavior plan aims to meet the child's social needs by reinforcing an appropriate way to get noticed. Inviting the child to participate in a positive activity, like performing in a talent show, gives them a legitimate outlet for attention while also reinforcing pro-social skills. It works because attention is a powerful reinforcer: when it’s earned through positive conduct, the child learns that good behavior leads to rewards and visibility.

Other strategies don’t teach a better way to get attention. Ignoring the behavior can miss the chance to guide and support the child, leaving the underlying need unmet. More homework adds burden without addressing the social function of the behavior. Removing the child from class is punitive, interrupts learning, and doesn’t teach a replacement behavior for seeking attention.