Differential Reinforcement – A ’Not So Science-y” Approach to Behavior

Differential reinforcement is an essential component of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) interventions for children with autism. It involves systematically reinforcing specific behaviors while withholding reinforcement for others. This technique aims to increase desired behaviors and decrease undesired behaviors. Here are three common types of differential reinforcement used in ABA therapy for children with autism:

Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA): DRA involves reinforcing a desired alternative behavior while withholding reinforcement for an inappropriate behavior. For example, if a child engages in screaming to grab an adult’s attention, the therapist might reinforce the child for using an alternative behavior such as tapping someone on the shoulder instead. By reinforcing the appropriate behavior, the therapist helps the child replace the unwanted behavior with a more socially acceptable one.

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI): DRI involves reinforcing a behavior that is incompatible with the problem behavior while providing no reinforcement for the problem behavior. For instance, if a child engages in scratching behavior, the therapist might reinforce the child for engaging in a behavior like holding and squeezing a soft toy, which is incompatible with head-hitting. This approach encourages the child to engage in an alternative behavior that cannot occur simultaneously with the problem behavior.

Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO): DRO involves reinforcing the absence or reduction of a specific problem behavior during a specified time interval. The reinforcement is provided if the problem behavior does not occur within that timeframe. For example, if a child exhibits disruptive behavior, the therapist might provide reinforcement if the child goes for five minutes without engaging in the disruptive behavior. This technique encourages the child to refrain from the problem behavior for a designated period.

It’s important to note that the specific reinforcement strategy used will depend on the individual needs and behaviors of the child. A qualified behavior analyst or therapist should assess the child’s behaviors, develop a behavior intervention plan, and determine the appropriate type of differential reinforcement to implement.

Consistency, clear communication, and data collection are critical when using differential reinforcement techniques. It is also important to ensure that the reinforcement used is meaningful and motivating for the child. Regular monitoring and adjustment of the intervention plan based on progress and feedback are essential for its effectiveness.

Here are some ways that you can use differential reinforcement in ABA therapy for children with autism:

1. Reinforcement schedule: Determine the appropriate reinforcement schedule for the targeted behavior. This can include continuous reinforcement, where the behavior is reinforced every time it occurs, or intermittent reinforcement, where the behavior is reinforced periodically. Intermittent reinforcement can be useful for maintaining behaviors over time.
   
   
2. Reinforcer selection: Identify reinforcers that are highly motivating and meaningful to the child. Different children have different preferences, so it’s essential to assess their individual interests, preferences, and sensory sensitivities. Reinforcers can be tangible items, activities, access to preferred objects or people, or social reinforcers such as praise and positive attention.
   
   
3. Gradual fading of reinforcement: Once a behavior is established, gradually fade the frequency or intensity of reinforcement over time. This process involves transitioning from continuous reinforcement to intermittent reinforcement and increasing the intervals between reinforcements. This helps promote the child’s independence and generalization of the behavior.
   
   
4. Data collection and analysis: Collect data on the target behavior and the use of reinforcement to assess progress and make informed decisions. This includes tracking the frequency and duration of the targeted behavior, recording when reinforcement is provided, and monitoring changes in behavior over time. Analyzing data allows for adjustments to the intervention plan as needed.
   
   
5. Generalization and maintenance: Teach the child to generalize the target behavior across various settings, people, and situations. This involves systematically and intentionally practicing the behavior in different environments and with different individuals to ensure that it occurs consistently. Also, continue to monitor and maintain the desired behavior over time to prevent regression.
   
   
6. Consider functional communication: For children who struggle with communication, it’s important to teach and reinforce appropriate alternative communication skills. This can include using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, sign language, or other forms of communication that enable the child to express their needs and wants effectively.
   
   
7. Collaborate with caregivers and educators: Ensure consistency in the use of differential reinforcement strategies across different settings. Collaborate with parents, caregivers, and teachers to provide training and support, so they can implement the strategies consistently at home and in school. This consistency helps reinforce the child’s progress and reduces confusion.
   
   
8. Use fading techniques: Gradually fade the use of prompts or cues that may be initially necessary to prompt the desired behavior. For example, if a child needs a verbal prompt to initiate a task, gradually fade the prompt by providing less explicit instructions or using gestures instead.
   
   
9. Incorporate natural reinforcement: Whenever possible, aim to incorporate naturally occurring reinforcement in the child’s environment. This can involve identifying and utilizing activities or items that naturally reinforce the target behavior. For example, if a child enjoys playing with blocks, use access to blocks as reinforcement for completing a task.
   
   
10. Consider individual preferences and interests: Tailor the choice of reinforcers to the child’s specific preferences and interests. By using reinforcers that are highly motivating to the child, you increase the likelihood of promoting the desired behaviors. Regularly assess and update the list of preferred reinforcers to maintain effectiveness.
    
    
11. Shape behavior through successive approximations: If the desired behavior is complex or not yet fully developed, use a shaping procedure to reinforce small steps toward the target behavior. Gradually increase the expectations and reinforce closer approximations to the desired behavior until the target behavior is achieved.
    
    
12. Monitor for potential satiation: Be mindful of potential satiation, where a reinforcer loses its effectiveness due to overuse or excessive access. Regularly assess the child’s motivation and interest in the reinforcers being used. If a reinforcer becomes less effective, consider rotating or introducing new reinforcers to maintain motivation.
    
    
13. Consider individualized reinforcement schedules: Tailor the reinforcement schedule to the child’s unique needs. Some children may respond better to a continuous reinforcement schedule, while others may benefit from intermittent reinforcement schedules. Observe the child’s behavior patterns and consult with professionals to determine the most appropriate schedule.
    
    
14. Provide immediate reinforcement: Deliver reinforcement immediately following the occurrence of the desired behavior. This helps strengthen the association between the behavior and the reinforcement, increasing the effectiveness of the intervention.
    
    
15. Train and involve caregivers: Provide training to parents, caregivers, and other individuals involved in the child’s life to ensure consistency in the use of differential reinforcement. Educate them on the principles and strategies of ABA, reinforce their implementation skills, and provide ongoing support to maintain the intervention’s effectiveness outside of therapy sessions.
    
    
16. Continually assess and adjust strategies: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the differential reinforcement strategies being used. Analyze data, seek input from the child, caregivers, and professionals, and make necessary adjustments to the intervention plan based on the child’s progress and individual needs.
    
    
17. Maintain a positive and supportive environment: Foster a positive and supportive environment throughout the intervention process. Create an atmosphere that encourages the child to engage in desired behaviors and provides ample opportunities for reinforcement.

Remember, differential reinforcement is just one component of a comprehensive ABA therapy program for children diagnosed with autism. It’s essential to implement it within the context of a well-rounded intervention plan that addresses various skill areas and incorporates other evidence-based strategies tailored to the child’s specific needs and goals. Working with a qualified behavior analyst or therapist can provide valuable guidance and support in developing and implementing effective differential reinforcement strategies.