Research Cluster

Good Behavior Game in Classrooms

This cluster shows how the Good Behavior Game helps kids behave better in class. Teachers split the room into teams, post a few clear rules, and give points for good choices. The game cuts talking out, leaving seat, and other trouble fast, even for kids with special needs. A BCBA can set it up in any K-8 room with almost no extra training.

35articles
1972–2026year range
5key findings
Key Findings

What 35 articles tell us

  1. The Good Behavior Game cuts disruptive behavior for students with and without special educational needs in inclusive classrooms.
  2. Students prefer competitive team versions of the game over cooperative formats, and competition boosts peer liking.
  3. Student-led versions of the game reduce disruptive behavior just as well as teacher-led versions, and students prefer them.
  4. You can safely thin the reinforcement schedule to occasional use after initial daily implementation without losing behavioral gains.
  5. Even imperfect implementation of the Good Behavior Game produces meaningful reductions in disruptive behavior.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from BCBAs and RBTs

The Good Behavior Game divides students into small teams and awards points when teams follow classroom rules. The team with the most points — or any team that meets a set goal — earns a reward at the end of the session.

Yes. Research shows it cuts disruptive behavior equally well for middle schoolers with and without special educational needs when used in an inclusive setting.

Yes. Studies show student-led versions reduce disruptive behavior just as well as teacher-led versions, and students consistently prefer running it themselves.

Research suggests that after consistent daily use in the early weeks, you can thin implementation to occasional sessions and still maintain most of the classroom behavior gains.

The game still works. Studies show that even with low treatment integrity, the Good Behavior Game produces meaningful reductions in disruptive behavior for most students.