Differential Reinforcement [RBT]
Differential reinforcement is a technique used in behavior analysis to increase or decrease the frequency of a particular behavior. It involves reinforcing a specific behavior while withholding reinforcement for other behaviors.
There are several types of differential reinforcement that can be used, depending on the specific goals of the behavior modification plan:
Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA): This involves reinforcing a behavior that is an acceptable alternative to the target behavior. For example, reinforcing a child for asking for a toy instead of throwing a tantrum to get it.
Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO): This involves reinforcing any behavior that is not the target behavior. For example, reinforcing a child for playing quietly rather than engaging in disruptive behavior.
Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI): This involves reinforcing a behavior that is incompatible with the undesirable behavior, making it difficult for the individual to engage in the undesirable behavior. For example, reinforcing a child for sitting quietly and reading a book, makes it difficult for them to engage in disruptive behavior.
Differential reinforcement of low rates of behavior (DRL): This involves reinforcing a behavior that occurs at a low frequency. For example, reinforcing a child for calling out in class less frequently.
Differential reinforcement of high rates of behavior (DRH): This involves reinforcing a behavior that occurs at a high frequency. For example, reinforcing a child for completing their homework quickly and efficiently.
The use of extinction is not always necessary for differential reinforcement procedures, as it depends on the specific implementation and goals of the intervention. In some cases, the procedure may involve withholding reinforcement for the problem behavior, which is a form of extinction. However, it is also possible to implement differential reinforcement without using extinction, by simply providing reinforcement for the alternative behavior(s) without necessarily withholding reinforcement for the problem behavior and instead reducing or restricting reinforcement for the problem behavior.
For example, if a child engages in hitting others to gain attention, an ABA therapist may implement DRA by teaching the child to use appropriate language or gestures to request attention. The therapist would provide positive reinforcement, such as praise or a preferred item, whenever the child uses the appropriate communication strategy, without necessarily withholding attention or reinforcement for hitting.
It is important to note that the use of extinction should be considered carefully and in consultation with a qualified behavior analyst, as it can sometimes lead to an initial increase in problem behavior before it decreases. The goal of any ABA intervention should be to increase desirable behavior and reduce problem behavior in a safe and effective manner.
Differential reinforcement can be an effective technique for increasing or decreasing specific behaviors and is often used in conjunction with other behavior modification techniques, such as shaping and extinction. It is important to carefully consider the goals of the behavior modification plan and the potential consequences of reinforcing certain behaviors. Differential reinforcement should be implemented consistently and with the guidance of a trained professional.