DRA: Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior
Definition: Reinforce a specific alternative behavior while withholding reinforcement for the problem behavior. When to use: When you can identify an appropriate replacement behavior. Example: Reinforce hand-raising while placing calling out on extinction. Exam tip: The alternative behavior should serve the same function as the problem behavior for maximum effectiveness.
DRI: Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior
Definition: Reinforce a behavior that is physically incompatible with the problem behavior. When to use: When you can identify a behavior that cannot occur simultaneously with the problem behavior. Example: Reinforce sitting in seat (incompatible with out-of-seat behavior). Exam tip: DRI is a special case of DRA. All DRI is DRA, but not all DRA is DRI.
DRO: Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior
Definition: Deliver reinforcement contingent on the absence of the target behavior for a specified interval. When to use: When you want to reduce a behavior and do not need a specific replacement. Example: Deliver a token every 5 minutes during which no aggression occurs. Exam tip: DRO does not teach a replacement behavior. It only reduces the problem behavior. Consider pairing it with DRA for a complete intervention.
DRL: Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates
Definition: Reinforce behavior only when it occurs at or below a specified rate. When to use: When the behavior is acceptable at low rates but problematic at high rates. Example: A student who raises their hand excessively is reinforced only when hand-raises are 5 or fewer per hour. Exam tip: DRL reduces the rate of behavior without eliminating it.
DRH: Differential Reinforcement of High Rates
Definition: Reinforce behavior only when it occurs at or above a specified rate. When to use: When you want to increase the rate of an already-occurring behavior. Example: A student is reinforced when they complete 10 or more math problems in 5 minutes.