In the context of behavior management, what does overcorrection seek to achieve?

Overcorrection is a behavior management technique that aims to address inappropriate behaviors by requiring the individual to restore an environment to its original state or improve upon the state that their behavior negatively affected. This approach involves two components: restitution and positive practice.

Restitution requires the individual to correct the consequences of their actions, such as cleaning up a mess they made, thereby focusing on taking responsibility for their behavior. Positive practice involves repeating the desired behavior in a controlled setting, which provides the opportunity to practice appropriate behavior in a way that reinforces learning.

By focusing on restoring the environment, overcorrection helps individuals understand the impact of their behaviors and encourages them to be mindful of how their actions affect their surroundings. This technique not only promotes accountability but also encourages learning through the remediation of mistakes. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the fundamental goal of overcorrection in behavior management—restoring the environment and fostering a sense of responsibility in individuals.