The differential Reinforcement technique is a process of giving and withholding reinforcement in order to encourage the desired behavior. This technique is done differently for each child, and it depends on their behavior level.
As opposed to the traditional reinforcement technique where a reward and punishment are given based on the child’s behavior, differential reinforcement ignores the negative behavior and reinforces positive behavior. The idea is to withhold the reinforcement until the negative behavior fades away. In some instances, it may worsen the negative behavior which requires for a different approach. But this technique can be done in different ways.
5 Differential Reinforcement Techniques
- Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI)
The purpose of DRI is to reinforce behaviors that can’t be reinforced at the same time as inappropriate behaviors.
- Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA)
The goal of DRA is to reinforce a behavior that serves as a substitute for inappropriate behavior.
- Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO)
In DRO, a child is rewarded when they do not engage in inappropriate behavior for a specific period of time.
- Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates (DRL)
DRL entails encouraging a child to reduce the frequency of certain behavior. While the behavior itself is not inappropriate, its frequency is inappropriate.
- Differential Reinforcement of High Rates (DRH)
Reinforcement occurs if the student meets or exceeds a minimum threshold for a particular behavior. Reinforcement is withheld if the student does not meet that standard.