When using the three tools to control behavior, it is usually best to begin by a. using mild punishment to eliminate any problem behaviors. b. suppressing problem behaviors with negative reinforcement. c. using severe punishment to eliminate any problem behaviors. d. ignoring a problem behavior, or shifting attention to a desirable activity and then reinforcing the resulting desirable behavior with praise.

a) using mild punishment to eliminate any problem behaviors

Explanation:

Controlling behavior is not an easy task and there would be need for carefulness on what the individual needs to do not to escalate the situation or make the person who has such attitude become more hardened. One of the best way to control behavior is by mild punishment, but it's better the mild punishment is accompanied with education on what's the best for the individual and what's not right to do. Using tough measures only makes the individual hardened and would dare to do more.