Deprivation
Definition
A period without access to a reinforcer, which increases its effectiveness and increases behavior that has produced it. It is the most common establishing operation, and restricting access to an item before a session — where ethically acceptable and within the plan — is one way to make it work as a reinforcer.
In plain language
Going without something for a while makes it worth more. A person works harder for a thing they have not had recently.
Example
Bubbles are kept for sessions only. Because the learner does not get them at home, they stay effective during teaching.
Not deprivation
A learner who has just spent an hour on the tablet. Recent access lowers its value, which is satiation.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- michael-1993
Written from Michael (1993). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.