DRO = Differential reinforcement of other behavior.DRA = Differential reinforcement of alternative behaviors.DRI = Differential reinforcement of incompatible behaviors.
There are four main types of differential reinforcement. When differential reinforcement is used to reduce maladaptive behavior, it includes the following two characteristics: What is Differential Reinforcement?ĭifferential reinforcement involves providing reinforcement to one response class and not providing – or withholding – reinforcement for another response class (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2014).ĭifferential reinforcement is one of the most highly recommended strategies for reducing problem behavior, in part because it does not rely on punishment procedures or intrusive techniques.
Differential reinforcement can be used in different ways in the natural environment, such as in a child’s home or in the community or even in a school setting (as well as in a clinic, of course).