Concepts · Domain G
DRO vs. DRA vs. DRI
The difference in short
Differential reinforcement has three variants that get confused. DRO reinforces the absence of the problem behavior over a period. DRA reinforces any appropriate alternative behavior. DRI reinforces an incompatible behavior — one that physically can't co-occur with the problem.
Quick comparison
| DRO | DRA | DRI | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operation | Reinforces the ABSENCE of the problem behavior | Reinforces an APPROPRIATE alternative behavior | Reinforces a behavior INCOMPATIBLE with the problem |
| Effect | Rewards it not happening | Rewards another valid behavior | Rewards something that blocks the problem |
| Example | Reinforcing every 5 minutes without yelling. | Reinforcing asking for help instead of yelling. | Reinforcing hands in lap (can't hit at the same time). |
How to tell them apart
- Are you reinforcing it NOT happening (DRO), an appropriate alternative (DRA), or a physically incompatible behavior (DRI)?
Examples
DRO
Reinforcing every 5 minutes without yelling.
DRA
Reinforcing asking for help instead of yelling.
DRI
Reinforcing hands in lap (can't hit at the same time).
Frequently asked
Are DRA and DRI the same?
No. DRI requires the alternative to be physically incompatible with the problem (they can't co-occur); DRA accepts any appropriate alternative.
Related concepts
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