A parent who copes with quarreling among young children by placing them in separate rooms is using?

JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Child Health Nursing (Pediatrics)

Easy

Appeared in: JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Explanation

The scenario describes a parent placing quarreling children in separate rooms.
This action is a classic example of the 'time-out' technique.
Time-out involves removing a child from a situation where they are receiving reinforcement for negative behavior (in this case, the attention and conflict of the quarrel).
The goal is to stop the undesirable behavior and provide a moment for the child (and parent) to calm down before re-engaging.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines steps for using time-out effectively, emphasizing it as a time for both parent and child to calm down.

Option B: Reinforcement is used to increase the frequency of a desirable behavior by providing a reward after the behavior occurs. The parent's action is a response to a negative behavior (quarreling), not a positive one.
Option C: Shaping involves teaching a new, complex behavior by rewarding small steps toward that behavior. The parent is not teaching a new skill but rather stopping an existing negative one.
Option D: Punishment is a broad term for any consequence that decreases a behavior. While time-out is technically a form of 'negative punishment' (removing a desired stimulus), 'Time out' is the more specific and accurate name for this particular technique.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Behavioral management techniques in children as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses often educate parents on effective, non-violent discipline strategies as part of pediatric and community health care.
Understanding the correct application of techniques like time-out is crucial. The recommended duration is typically one minute per year of the child's age.
It's important to advise parents that time-out should be used consistently and calmly, not as a threat or in anger. It is a tool for teaching, not just for punishment.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the parent's action: They are separating quarreling children.
Next, consider the purpose of this action: To stop the negative behavior (quarreling) by removing the children from the situation.
Review the definitions of the options provided.
Match the action to the most specific and appropriate term. 'Reinforcement' rewards good behavior. 'Shaping' teaches new behaviors in steps. 'Punishment' is a broad term.
Recognize that removing a child from a reinforcing situation to manage behavior is the definition of 'Time out'.
Therefore, 'Time out' is the most accurate answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qr9iQxi0RQV3cKv8NSLsqB

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 187-189

E6 Psychology Morgan King 9e Part 1 pp. 182-184, 181-183