Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Which technique has shown to be more successful in changing personality in children than in adults?

1. Intensive psychotherapy

2. Manipulation of the environment

3. Behavioral reinforcement

4. Aversive conditioning

The correct answer is: Manipulation of the environment

The manipulation of the environment has shown to be more successful in changing personality in children than in adults due to the developmental stage of children and their greater plasticity. Younger individuals are still in the process of forming their identity and personality traits, making them more receptive to changes in their surroundings. Children often absorb their lessons from their environments, including social interactions, cultural expectations, and familial relationships. By actively altering aspects of the environment—such as modifying social situations, enhancing positive peer interactions, or changing family dynamics—social workers and psychologists can foster healthier behavioral and personality changes. In contrast, adults generally have more established personalities that are intractable, making significant personality changes more challenging. Their coping mechanisms and personality traits are often more ingrained and resistant to environmental shifts. While the other techniques, such as intensive psychotherapy, behavioral reinforcement, and aversive conditioning, can be effective, they may not yield the same level of success in reforming personality traits as strategically altering the environment in the formative years of childhood. This adaptability of children to changes in their environment underscores the effectiveness of this approach.