Introduction to Differential Reinforcement
Differential reinforcement (DR) is a core principle in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) used to modify behavior. It involves reinforcing a specific, desired behavior while withholding reinforcement for an undesirable, or target, behavior. This process increases the frequency of the positive behavior and decreases the problematic one. Two common types are Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA) and Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI). The main difference lies in the nature of the replacement behavior.
What is Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA)?
DRA involves reinforcing a replacement behavior that serves the same function as the challenging behavior. The alternative behavior doesn't need to be physically incompatible with the undesired behavior, just an appropriate replacement that meets the same need. The problematic behavior is then put on extinction by no longer reinforcing it.
DRA in Practice: A Simple Example
A child throws their plate to signal they're finished (function: escape/attention). A DRA teaches them to say "all done" or push the plate forward instead. When they use the alternative, they get praise; when they throw, it's ignored.
What is Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI)?
DRI is a subtype of DRA that reinforces a behavior physically impossible to do at the same time as the undesired behavior. The incompatible behavior also serves the same function as the target behavior. Reinforcing the new behavior directly prevents the occurrence of the old one because they cannot happen simultaneously.
DRI in Practice: A Simple Example
A student gets out of their seat for attention (function: attention). A DRI reinforces sitting quietly. The teacher praises the student when they remain seated. Sitting and walking are incompatible, so reinforcing sitting makes it more likely than walking around.
Key Differences Between DRA and DRI
The relationship between the reinforced behavior and the target behavior is the key distinction. All DRIs are DRAs (as an incompatible behavior is an alternative), but not all DRAs are DRIs. An alternative behavior (DRA) can sometimes occur alongside the problem behavior, whereas an incompatible behavior (DRI) cannot.
| Feature | Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA) | Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship to Target Behavior | Reinforces a suitable replacement behavior that serves the same function. | Reinforces a behavior that is physically impossible to do at the same time as the target behavior. |
| Coexistence | The alternative behavior can, theoretically, coexist with the unwanted behavior, though the goal is to replace it. | The incompatible behavior and the unwanted behavior cannot occur simultaneously. |
| Flexibility | Offers more flexibility in choosing a replacement behavior, as it only needs to be functionally equivalent. | Requires identifying a behavior that is physically incompatible, which can sometimes be more restrictive. |
| Primary Goal | To replace an undesirable behavior with a more appropriate alternative that meets the same need. | To directly prevent the unwanted behavior by strengthening an incompatible action. |
| Example | Asking for a break instead of yelling to escape a task. | Clasping hands together instead of hitting a desk. |
When to Use Each Strategy
The choice depends on the specific behavior. DRI is effective when a clear, incompatible behavior exists, often for physical actions. DRA is broader, useful when an incompatible behavior isn't obvious or when teaching a general communication skill. For instance, DRI might stop head-banging by reinforcing playing with hands. DRA could address shouting out by reinforcing hand-raising, which isn't incompatible but is a more desirable alternative.
Addressing the Confusion with Nutritional Terms
It's important to note that DRA is not a standard term in nutrition, unlike DRI (Dietary Reference Intake). If you encounter DRA in a nutrition context, it's likely a misunderstanding of a DRI sub-category like RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance).
Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) are nutritional reference values from the National Academy of Medicine and Health Canada. Key DRI values include:
- Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA): Sufficient for nearly all healthy individuals.
- Adequate Intake (AI): Used when RDA can't be determined.
- Estimated Average Requirement (EAR): Meets requirements of 50% of healthy individuals.
- Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): Maximum daily intake unlikely to cause harm.
This nutritional context is distinct from the behavioral uses of DRA and DRI.
Conclusion
DRA and DRI are effective ABA techniques differing in the relationship between the replacement and target behaviors. Understanding this distinction helps select the best strategy for positive change. In nutrition, DRI refers to dietary recommendations and is unrelated. For more on nutritional DRIs, the {Link: NIH website https://ods.od.nih.gov/HealthInformation/nutrientrecommendations.aspx} is a good resource.
