National Counselor Exam (NCE)

What principle is demonstrated when parents tell their son he can play his Xbox after completing his homework?

1. The Premack principle

2. Behavior modification

3. Positive reinforcement

4. Contingency management

The correct answer is: The Premack principle

The Premack principle is a concept in psychology that refers to the idea that a more desirable behavior can be used as a reward for a less desirable behavior. In this scenario, the parents are using the opportunity to play Xbox—an activity that the son likely finds enjoyable—as a consequence or reward for completing his homework, which is presumably less enjoyable for him. This principle is effective because it leverages the son’s interest in playing Xbox to motivate him to complete his homework first, reinforcing the idea that he must achieve a certain task before gaining access to a preferred activity. This approach illustrates a clear relationship between task completion and subsequent access to a more rewarding experience, aligning perfectly with the definition of the Premack principle. By instituting this contingency, the parents are effectively using a motivational strategy that capitalizes on the son’s natural preferences.