Truancy and Incentive Programs Research Paper by Nicky

Truancy poses significant societal problem and poses a threat to the future of youth. In the past, methods to help resolve truancy have resulted in little impact on the overall rate of truancy. This paper examines a new approach to the problem based on positive reinforcement, rather than punishment. It explores the use of positive reinforcement through the use of items that can be earned through attendance and participation in the school system and how this type of rewards system represents a new approach to the problem of truancy. It also looks at how the use of positive instead of negative reinforcement represents a paradigm shift in methodology for dealing with the truancy problem and explores the effectiveness of a rewards/points system in reducing truancy in middle school students.

Outline:
Chapter I - Introduction to the Problem
Introduction to the Problem
Background of the Study
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Study Variables
Rationale, Relevance, Significance
Nature of the Study
Definition of Terms
Assumptions and Limitations
Organization of Remainder of Study
Chapter 2 - Literature Review
Introduction
Theoretical Framework
Review of the Critical Literature
Historical Context
Motivational and Behavioral Research: Why Punishment Doesn't Work
Co-Morbidity with Other Problems: Identifying Stressors
Bridging the Gap Between the Criminal Justice System and School Counselors
Experimental Design and the Problem of Truancy
Summary
Chapter 3 - Methodology
Introduction
Researcher's Philosophy
Research Design Guide or Model
Research Design Strategy
Sampling Design and Setting
Measures
Data Collection Procedures
Field Testing/Pilot Testing
Data Analysis Procedures
Limitations of Methodology
Internal Validity
External Validity
Expected Findings
Ethical Issues
Timeline
Summary
Conclusion