Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior
Also called: DRA, functional communication training, FCT
Definition
A procedure in which reinforcement is delivered for a specified alternative response that serves the same function as a target behavior, while reinforcement for the target behavior is withheld or reduced. Functional communication training is the widely used variant in which the alternative response is a communicative one.
In plain language
You teach a different way to get the same result, and make sure that way works well. The old behavior stops paying off as well as the new one does.
Examples
A learner who has been leaving the table to escape work is taught to hand over a break card, and the break is given promptly every time the card is used.
The alternative produces the same outcome the original behavior produced.
A learner learns to tap a staff member's shoulder for attention instead of shouting, and tapping is answered immediately.
Not differential reinforcement of alternative behavior
Teaching a learner to request a snack when the behavior of concern was maintained by escape from work. The alternative does not match the function.
A functionally irrelevant alternative will not compete with the target behavior.
Reinforcing a new response while the old behavior still works just as well and just as quickly. Without a difference in payoff there is nothing differential about it.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- carr-durand-1985 — Functional communication training
- iwata-1982-1994
Written from Carr and Durand (1985), the primary source for functional communication training, plus the functional-analysis literature. No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.