ABSTRACT
Children presenting with dysfunctional behavior put an enormous strain on the school system, including other children, teachers, parents, administration, and social services, not to mention the social, emotional, and academic price to themselves. A multitude of methods to address this problem have been developed throughout the years, including ones based on Applied Behavior Analysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Theory. However, the majority of these are targeted towards mental health professionals. Improving Student Behavior: The Success Diary Approach was developed specifically for teachers dealing with dysfunctional child behavior. It is a conspectus of techniques and clinical concepts, from multiple perspectives. This is a multi-tiered, step-by-step approach that culminates in the development and utilization of an individualized Success Diary. Each one of these steps and guidelines alone may prove sufficient in redirecting a child to more functional behavior.
