Contingency Maps
Using Contingency Maps to Support Behavioral Development in Students
In the world of behavioral supports, one of the most effective tools available for students with behavioral challenges is the contingency map. A contingency map is a visual representation that outlines the sequence of events that accompany a specific behavior, showing cause and effect, and linking actions with their consequences. These maps are not just helpful for managing behavior but also for teaching students valuable lessons about how their actions impact their environment. They can be used to help students make informed decisions, provide predictability for students with anxiety and trauma, teach cause and effect, aide in the reflection process, and teach pro-social behavior skills.
What Are Contingency Maps?
A contingency map is a visual representation of behaviors and their resulting consequences. The map follows a specific framework known as the ABC pattern of behavior:
Antecedent (A) – This is the trigger or environmental cue that sets off the behavior. It could be something as simple as the start of a task or a specific request from a teacher.
Behavior (B) – This refers to the action the student takes in response to the antecedent. There are typically two paths shown here: one for the appropriate behavior and one for the inappropriate behavior.
Consequence (C) – This is the result of the behavior, showing the positive or negative outcomes that follow. The map will clearly depict what happens when the student engages in either the appropriate or inappropriate behavior.
The power of a contingency map lies in the fact that it shows the student two paths: one for making a positive choice and another for making a less desirable choice. This visualization allows students to see the cause-and-effect relationship between their actions and the resulting consequences.
Why Are Contingency Behavior Maps Effective?
Contingency maps are not just useful for illustrating the consequences of behavior; they are also powerful tools for teaching and preventing undesired behavior. Let’s break down why they work so well:
1. Clear and Visual Representation
One of the primary reasons contingency maps are so effective is because they provide a visual representation of the behavior and consequences. For students with low receptive language skills or those in early childhood, these visual aids make abstract concepts like cause and effect much more tangible. Instead of just hearing about consequences, students can actually see the results of their actions depicted in a clear and concrete way.
2. Encourages Informed Decision-Making
When students can visually see the positive outcomes for appropriate behavior and the negative consequences for inappropriate behavior—they can make more informed choices. Contingency maps empower students to decide if the consequence of a specific action is worth the behavior. This decision-making process fosters a sense of control and responsibility over their own actions.
3. Helps Prevent and Manage Behavior
Contingency maps also help to anticipate and prevent unwanted behavior before it happens. By reviewing the map with students before a situation arises, teachers can set clear expectations and remind students of the outcomes tied to their choices.
By proactively modeling the behavior and discussing the consequences, educators can guide students through each potential path, reinforcing what is expected and why certain behaviors are more desirable than others.
4. Provides Consistency and Predictability
For many students, especially those who may be experiencing anxiety or trauma, predictability is crucial. Contingency maps provide a structured way to make the environment more consistent. When students are able to clearly see the cause-and-effect relationship between behavior and consequence, it creates a sense of safety and order. They understand what will happen and can begin to predict the results of their actions.
5. Reinforces Behavioral Learning and Reflection
Contingency maps also serve as a great tool for behavioral learning and reflection. By regularly reviewing the map, students can reflect on past behaviors, understand how their choices affected the situation, and make better choices in the future. The more students see the map in use, the better they can internalize the connection between their behavior and the resulting consequences.
How to Use Contingency Behavior Maps Effectively
To get the most out of a contingency map, it’s important to teach the strategy and actively use it repeatedly, following through with the reinforcement and the consequences that are built into the system. Here is a simple guide for using these maps effectively:
Teach the Strategy: Start by getting the student’s input and creating the map. Review the behavior map with the student, ensuring that the student understands the two potential paths and the resulting outcomes.
Practice the Strategy: Go through the map with the student and model both the appropriate and inappropriate behaviors. This helps the student see real-life applications of the map and reinforces the cause-and-effect relationship.
Implement During Trigger Events: If you know certain behaviors occur during specific times of the day, anticipate those moments and bring out the map. Review the behavior paths before the situation occurs so the student is prepared to make the right choice.
Keep the Map Visible: Having the behavior map easily accessible throughout the day serves as a constant reminder of the expectations. The map should be present and visible, especially in situations where behaviors tend to arise, so the student can refer back to it when needed.
Provide Positive Reinforcement: When the student makes the right choice, be sure to reinforce the appropriate behavior. Positive reinforcement for desired actions solidifies the connection between the behavior and the positive outcome.
Collect the data: Create point sheets, token economy systems, money systems - any system of reinforcement, and consequence - around the contingency map, and document that data on some sort of corresponding daily performance sheet or form, (download the template below). This will help you see the effect of your intervention and measure behavioral performance around the identified behaviors.
Contingency maps are a simple but powerful tool that can make a world of difference for all students, especially those with special needs, with low receptive language skills, or young learners. By visually mapping out behaviors and their consequences, these maps make it easier for students to understand the cause-and-effect relationship behind their actions. They help students make informed decisions, reflect on their behavior, and learn to connect appropriate choices with positive outcomes. With clear structure, consistency, and a little practice, contingency maps can become a key component in fostering better behavior, stronger decision-making skills, and an overall positive learning environment.
Download a FREE corresponding Daily Performance Sheet template that captures data around your contingency maps!
