Are kids better motivated by rewards or punishments?

Question

If u have kids, which one works better for them? and explain why if u want...

Answer 1

positive reinforcement works best, but forget logic and reasoning in an under 3 year old, they act on impulse and cannot understand our grown up world. after that, when the intellect starts to develop they will be better able to identify reward.

punishment will only lead to modeled behavior in the long run, as it says that physical punishment is justified. it is also hard to do as it is hard to keep it relative to the crime without getting angry and going too hard on them, so it is best avoided. hitting does nothing but makes them fearful of you, they wont change their ways, just the way they view you.

negative reinforcement is also able to work, and involves the child knowing that they will avoid 'time out' by doing what they are told. its avoidance of the negative in action here.

We personally have the "time Out" pillows in a corner, and she has to sit there for 1 minute for each yr of age. it works wonders. even though she may scream and cry, when its time up, we have group hugs and discuss the better action to take, and she is a refreshed child who goes off nicely, and we are happy we didnt lose the plot. its a win win situation.

Answer 2

That's a good question. We work on rewarding their good behaviour. It works for us. My kids are 5 and 3. Punishment doesn't seem to motivate them. But when they are naughty we do discipline them with time outs, etc.

Answer 3

Kids should not be motivated by rewards or punishments.Its up to the parents to help motivate them and nurture their potential.Rewards and punishments are not necessary to do that.

Answer 4

I don't have kids, but I have 3 nieces and a nephew. I think both motivates them.

Answer 5

Well, neither really seemed to work for them