Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior
Also called: DRI
Definition
A differential-reinforcement procedure in which reinforcement is delivered for a behavior that cannot physically occur at the same time as the problem behavior, and withheld for the problem behavior. It is a special case of DRA in which the alternative is chosen for its incompatibility — hands in pockets cannot also be hands on a peer.
In plain language
Rewarding a behavior the person cannot do at the same time as the problem behavior. Hands holding a toy cannot also be hitting.
Example
A learner who grabs food from others' plates is reinforced for keeping both hands on their own tray during meals.
Not differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior
Reinforcing asking for a snack instead of grabbing. Asking is an alternative, but a person can ask and grab at once, so that is DRA rather than DRI.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- vollmer-iwata-1992
Written from Vollmer and Iwata (1992). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.