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A squadron uses merits and demerits to build character. Which approach is that?

Behaviorism: rewards and punishments to shape behavior.

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  1. The developmental perspective
  2. Cooperative negotiation
  3. Behaviorism ✔

Why: Behaviorism tries to build character by systematically rewarding good behavior and punishing bad. Many experts doubt it works, since real life does not always reward honesty with points.

Huh, didn't know that: Learn to Lead says the least effective method of all may be preachy lectures.

The dad joke
Why did the cadet get a merit for his jokes? They were well behaved.
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References

Answer: Behaviorism. Behaviorism tries to build character by systematically rewarding good behavior and punishing bad. Many experts doubt it works, since real life does not always reward honesty with points.

  1. Learn to Lead, Volume 3: Indirect Leadership, chapter 9 (Civil Air Patrol) www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/L2LVolume_3__LOW_FINAL_4_MAY_13CC68236BDFE.pdf
    behaviorism is a belief in systematically employing rewards and punishments to control behavior.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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