Behavior Shaping and Sequencing: 2 personal examples

Kelly SchmutteStanford University10.2.12

how do we make new behaviors easier to do?

In the Fogg Behavior Model, one way you can make behaviors more likely to happen is by increasing a person’s ability to do them (making them easier to do).

There are 2 basic strategies for making behaviors easier: Shaping and Sequencing. Shaping involves a gradual progression of behavior (slowly increasing in difficulty), whereas Sequencing involves a specific series of small, achievable steps that cascade to the desired outcome. Here are examples of each from my own life.

B = MAT

* *

Shaping Map: Long-Distance Cycling

Bike to gym (15 min one way/ 3.75 mi)

Davis Bike Loop(60 min/ 12 mi)

Bike to Dixon (+ beyond)(1.5-1.75 hrs/ 25-30 mi)

Bike to Winters(2hrs/ 35 mi)

Bike to Lake Berryessa (3.5 hrs/ 57 mi)

Bike to Lagoon Valley (4.5 hrs/ 72 mi)

Bike to Folsom Dam (5.25 hrs/ 82 mi)

(got a new, faster bike)

Bike to Vallejo Ferry station(w/ 30 lbs gear, wind, hills)(5hrs one way/ 70 mi)Kelly Schmutte

Sequencing Map: Learn Oil Painting

Study watercolor and drawing in HS

Found a friend (Katie) also interested in oil

Researched classes

Signed up for a 8-week class at the DAC

Bought oil painting supplies (brushes, paints, canvas, etc.)

Went to class every week (observed, practiced)

Did the assigned project homework (weekly)

Entered two pieces in the CA State Fair

Kelly Schmutte

*

*

The * steps represent key steps that cascaded toward the final behavior like a domino effect.