top of page

What is Differential Reinforcement?

Writer's picture: AIM Behavior ServicesAIM Behavior Services

Differential reinforcement is a behavior change technique that involves selectively reinforcing desired behaviors while reducing undesired behaviors. The goal of differential reinforcement is to increase the frequency of desired behaviors and decrease the frequency of undesired behaviors.


There are several types of differential reinforcement:

  1. Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA): This involves reinforcing a desired behavior that serves as an alternative to an undesired behavior. For example, a child who engages in disruptive behavior may be taught to use appropriate communication skills as an alternative.

  2. Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI): This involves reinforcing a behavior that is incompatible with an undesired behavior. For example, a child who engages in self-injurious behavior may be taught to engage in a relaxation technique instead.

  3. Differential reinforcement of low rates of behavior (DRL): This involves reinforcing a behavior that occurs at a low rate, such as waiting quietly for a turn, and ignoring the behavior when it occurs at a higher rate.

  4. Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO): This involves reinforcing any behavior other than the undesired behavior. For example, a child who engages in disruptive behavior may be reinforced for sitting quietly.

Overall, differential reinforcement is a useful technique for promoting positive behaviors while decreasing negative behaviors in a variety of settings, including schools, homes, and workplaces.

8 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Autism Support in San Diego

San Diego is home to a variety of resources and support services for individuals with autism and their families. These resources can help...

Comments


Contact
Contact

Tel: (619) 356-0358

Fax: (844) 609-0034

​E-Mail: contact@aimbehavior.com
 

South Bay Learning Center

2513 Windward Way

Chula Vista, Ca. 91914

​

North County Learning Center

3604 Ocean Ranch Blvd

Oceanside, Ca. 92056

​​

Clovis Learning Center

1420 Shaw Ave

Clovis, Ca. 93611

​​​

Meridian / Boise Learning Center

6700 N Linder Rd

Meridian, Id 83646

​

Virginia Learning Center

7305 Hancock Village Dr.

Chesterfield, Va 23832

Success! Message received. We will respond to you within one business day.

  • Black Facebook Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon
bottom of page