Behavioral "reinforcement" occurs when behavior is strengthened or increased by the consequences that follow it. "Punishment" occurs when behavior is suppressed by the consequences that follow it. As a general principle, the less punishment is used, the more powerful it is when it is used; effective punishment should be swift, and alternative ways for students to get what they want should be developed. Even when punishment is implemented, reinforcement of positive behaviors should continue, and when punishment is threatened it should be implemented. The creation of a reinforcement program involves the identification of reinforcers, the specifying of target behaviors and the arrangement of consequences for those actions, the promotion of the internalization of the learning, behavioral measurement, and troubleshooting. 6 references