Socially Mediated Reinforcement
Also called: social reinforcement, mediated consequence
Definition
Reinforcement that is delivered by another person as a consequence of the behavior: attention, help, access to items, or removal of a demand. Three of the four commonly assessed functions of behavior are socially mediated, which is why they can be tested by changing what other people do.
In plain language
When another person provides the reward, such as attention, a toy, or a break. The behavior works because of what other people do next.
Example
A student calls out and the teacher answers. The answer is the socially mediated consequence.
Not socially mediated reinforcement
A learner spins a wheel for the visual effect when no one is present. The consequence is automatic, not social.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- iwata-1982-1994
Written from Iwata et al. (1982/1994). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.