How the Premack Principle Works and How to Use It Effectively
Have you ever heard of "Grandma's Rule"?
It's also known as the ''Premack principle'', a simple psychological concept that suggests we're more likely to do something we don't really like if we know there's something fun waiting for us after! For example, you might be more motivated to finish your chores if you know you can watch your favorite show afterward.
It's a trick many parents use without even realizing it: "first eat your dinner, then you can have dessert". The great thing about this principle is that it can work for all sorts of tasks and activities, whether you're at home, school, or work. It's a simple but effective way to encourage positive behaviour and keep your child or even yourself motivated.
However, the "Grandma's Rule" has some limitations. It's important to keep in mind that everyone is different and what motivates one person may not work for another. Additionally, if the reward is too big or distracting, it could actually take away from the original task. On the other hand, if the task is too big or difficult, the reward may not be sufficient to motivate the child.
If you're interested in giving "Grandma's Rule" a try, here are some tips to get you started:
Think about the behaviour you want to encourage in your child (or yourself), whether it's doing homework, cleaning their bedroom, or finishing a work project.
Choose a reward that your child really enjoys, like watching their favorite show, playing a video game, or having a yummy snack.
Make a "first-then" statement, like "First, finish your homework, then you can watch your show!"
Follow through with your statements. If you've set the expectation that homework needs to be finished before TV time, make sure to follow through on that statement.
Keep track of your child's progress and adjust as needed. If something isn't working, don't be afraid to switch things up and try something new.
In the end, "Grandma's Rule" is a fun and often effective way to motivate your child and get things done. Whether your child is trying to finish his chores or you are trying to tackle a big project, this simple approach can make a big difference in your life.